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04/17/2006: "Bookstores"
They're great escapes from the everyday hassles of the world.
I've just returned from a bookstore that's within walking distance (although
I never do) of my home. There's no need for me to name it. People know the
name and the store certainly doesn't need the free publicity. They get
enough of my money as it is.
Anyway, on this trip, I bought two relatively recent books. One is "Artists
at Work," by David Seidner. It takes you inside the studios of some famous
artists. Love it. It's insightful, yet down to earth. The other book is
"Alma Thomas: A Retrospective of the Paintings." It's a wonderful
documentation of the work of an unsung abstract expressionist artist. While
flipping through the pages, all I could think was, "I'd sure like to own
that one! And that one! And that one!"
I own practically enough art books to start my own bookstore. Not a week
goes by when I'm not inside one ... twice.
The thing I like about bookstores is that if you really listen, you can hear
people actually saying things like "Hello," "Excuse me," "Sorry" and hold
onto your hat, "Thank You!" I'm not kidding. Have you noticed? For some
reason, the bookstore has retained its status as one of the last bastions of
civility in our society. I actually feel like I'm part of an enlightened,
generous race of human beings when I visit them. It doesn't matter whether
I'm in Los Angeles, New York or Cincinnati. The mood is always the same.
To put it bluntly, people actually seem to practice RESPECT in bookstores.
I'm not saying this is true in ALL bookstores, but I find it to be the case
... for the most part. I guess that's also yet another reason why I love
museums and art galleries so much. It's nice to visit places that people
hold in high regard. Of course, churches are included in this category as
well. Perhaps it's the imposing architecture that freezes people into a
state of hushed awe, but that certainly can't be the case in bookstores.
They're so warm and homey. I think it has something to do with democracy.
Bookstores are one of the few remaining examples of true democracy and
diversity. Anyone can enter a bookstore, anyone can browse and anyone can
buy a book or magazine. Of course, book prices are a factor, but the
playing field is pretty level for everyone. You find something of your own
choosing, you stand in line like everyone else and you pay for it. Also,
bookstores are super-comfortable and well-designed. Being surrounded by
books is like being inside a womb ... or perhaps an incubator of knowledge.
You can only emerge better for the trip. Does anyone really want to leave?
Bookstores are now more like libraries than libraries.
Just this past Christmastime, I was visiting a popular bookstore in
Charlotte, North Carolina. I went to the art books section (of course) and
there was this older woman sitting in a leather club chair nearby. I got my
book and sat down across from her. She had almost shoulder-length graying
hair and she was wearing glasses. She also had on a bulky, blue sweater or
maybe a sweatshirt and blue jeans. I also seem to recall she was wearing
those clog shoes that some women wear. She also had a cup of coffee and a
book that she was clearly enjoying. It was nice to see someone's face
immersed in something so simple and pleasurable.
I also get a great, calming feeling when I'm browsing through a new art book
or magazine in a nice bookstore. It's the way life should be. Relaxing.
But you know what's even better? When I've priced an art book in the store
and I get it much cheaper online! I just recently bought Julian Schnabel's
HUGE, hardcover coffee-table book online for $28.22. Shipping included!
It's used, but in great shape. That sucker retails for $75.00 new! I was
thrilled! I like to support my local businesses, but you know what? The
only thing better than wandering through elegant bookstores is saving a few
bucks.
That's always a hit in my book.
MICHAEL CORBIN IS A WRITER AND AVID ART COLLECTOR
