Canio’s Books in Sag Harbor, NY where I gave one of my rare performances in 1980. Founded by the great Canio Pavone, the store had an ambience you won’t find at the mall…creaky floors, dust, overstuffed furniture, a touch of old Italy, and lots of quality lit, old and new. I use to hang there on Saturday mornings with writers Nelson Algren and Peter Fine.
It was hot java and great gab in a quiet corner by the window. Nelson held forth with unparalleled anecdotes (all of them true), e.g., the inside scoop on his affair with Simone de Beauvoir for god sakes..
Pleased to report the store is still open for business. If you’re in the Hamptons this summer be sure to drop in.
