Sounding off in style

Poet Jon Sands shares the spirit of the modern bohemian.

Not all readings take place in small, independent coffee shops amid turtlenecks and fedoras. This Saturday, the chic Standard Hotel of West Hollywood will host “The Rattling Wall: Reading & Release,” a free literary event from PEN Center USA and Narrow Books.

The Rattling Wall is an L.A.-based journal of poetry, short stories and travel writing. Editor Michelle Meyering will emcee the release of the second issue, which ranges from Pulitzer prize-winning poet Yusef Komunyakaa’s foray into love (and hate) fiction to punk icon Henry Rollins’ rambling tales of travel life on and off tour.

To mark the occasion, Dana Goodyear, Katie Arnoldi, Graham Moore, Jon Sands and Martin Pousson will read their contributions. A book sale and signing will follow. Hors d’oeuvres will be served and a DJ will provide musical entertainment.

PEN Center USA is a Beverly Hills-based nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering, promoting and protecting writers worldwide. It provides a forum where diverse authors of the western United States can commune and collaborate.

The event starts at 7 p.m., February 4 at 8300 Sunset Boulevard. Valet parking is $6.

Posted 2/1/12