Dream Baby Press hosted an unconventional poetry reading at a Burger King in New York’s Financial District, blending literary performances with fast food culture in a event that drew celebrities and authors for a night of eclectic readings. The gathering, held on Wednesday, featured Lukas Gage, Carole Radziwill, and others sharing works that ranged from personal anecdotes to humorous social commentary, creating a unique fusion of high art and everyday ambiance.
The evening kicked off with Dream Baby Press founder Matt Starr, who read poems from his book “Mouthful” that explored sexually charged themes like fraternal power-tool play and A-list incest, setting a provocative and engaging tone for the audience. Starr’s performance highlighted the press’s commitment to pushing boundaries, as attendees enjoyed burgers and beer in the casual setting of the fast-food chain, which added an ironic contrast to the sophisticated content.
Following Starr, novelist and screenwriter Sam Lansky delivered a sweet and precociously pained poem he wrote at age 13, offering a nostalgic glimpse into his early creative years and resonating with the crowd through its heartfelt vulnerability. Author Coco Mellors then took the stage with a hilarious yet devastating reading about her personal battle to have a baby, drawn from her upcoming novel, which masterfully wove body horror with elements of a love story, captivating listeners with its emotional depth and raw honesty.
Carole Radziwill, known for her role on “The Real Housewives of New York City,” shared a nostalgic account of a rendezvous with Bruce Springsteen from her days as an ABC producer, infusing the event with a touch of celebrity gossip and personal reflection that delighted fans. Her reading, sourced from her Substack, emphasized how such gatherings bridge the gap between public figures and their audiences, fostering intimacy in unexpected venues like a Burger King.
Lukas Gage, star of “The White Lotus,” contributed by reading an unintentional poem derived from a tweet by a “Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” star, which included critical stanzas about fashion and behavior, such as “Her hot dog outfits remind us that she sucked her way to the top” and “She doesn’t listen because her ears are stitched down to her face so tight she can’t hear.” This performance underscored the intersection of social media and poetry in contemporary culture, drawing laughter and applause from the crowd.
Adding to the spontaneity, an impromptu but impeccable performance by a wandering individual typically found in downtown fast-food places late at night enriched the event, embodying the unpredictable spirit of New York City and enhancing the communal atmosphere. Throughout the night, burger queens Deveen and Myra kept the energy high by managing food service and ensuring a steady flow of beer, seamlessly supporting the literary proceedings without missing a beat.
This deep-fried literary affair exemplifies Dream Baby Press’s innovative approach to hosting salons in unconventional spaces, making literature more accessible and engaging for diverse audiences. The success of such events points to a growing trend of blending art with casual environments, potentially inspiring future initiatives that challenge traditional cultural norms and bring creative expression to everyday life.