Williamstown, Massachusetts—The Clark Art Institute presents a book talk with author and filmmaker Alan Govenar On Thursday, September 15 starting at 6 p.m. in the Clark’s auditorium.

Govenar joins Hardymon Director of the Clark Olivier Meslay, in a conversation about his novel, “Boccaccio in the Berkshires.” 

Govenar’s novel provides a fresh take on human interactions in the time of COVID. 

It chronicles the contemporary story of ten asymptomatic pandemic survivors who shelter together in an Italianate mansion in the Berkshires. 

They form unexpected bonds as they tell each other stories to cope with the bizarre conditions of the modern world.

The novel is a satirical homage to fourteenth-century writer Giovanni Boccaccio’s novel “The Decameron,” which told tales of ten people sheltering in a villa outside Florence to escape the Black Death through short stories. 

Alan Govenar is an award-winning writer, poet, playwright, photographer, and filmmaker. He is the founder and president of the non-profit organization Documentary Arts that attempts to advance essential perspectives on historical issues and diverse cultures.

Free; no registration is required. A small reception and book signing follow the event. 

Copies of “Boccaccio in the Berkshires” are available through the Clark’s Museum Store. More information here.  clarkart.edu/events.