Jim Tipton, who died on May 16, 2018, was a much loved writer and poet at Lakeside. His last published book, “The Alphabet of Longing and Other Poems,” is a slim volume in which he poetically describes 13 years of living in the high desert mesa of Colorado, with his dog as his only companion.
It’s in that place of solitude that he sustained himself as a beekeeper while seeking answers to life’s most pressing questions, namely what matters most and how to live a purposeful life.
The public is invited to attend an intimate reading of Tipton’s poems on Wednesday, January 16, and his poems will be read by veteran actor Fred Koesling, at a private residence in Ajijic (see below).
Margaret Van Every, editor of Tipton’s book, selected Koesling for his affinity with the material and for his dramatic interpretive style – one that is similar to Tipton’s.
“For close to 60 years,” says Van Every, “Koesling has acted, sung and entertained in countless shows on both U.S. coasts, and for the past 14 years has performed at Lakeside Little Theatre, the Naked Stage and My, My How Nice! Productions (which became Bravo Theatre). There couldn’t be a better person to interpret Jim’s poetry for this intimate gathering.”
Says Koesling: “Jim Tipton was a good friend and I feel gratified to be able to give voice to Jim’s thoughts through his poetry.”
Although he was born in Ohio from a long line of Quakers, Tipton identified himself with the Colorado desert, and later with Mexico, where he had traveled multiple times since 1964. He lived at Lakeside for many years before his death.
Tipton became fascinated with words and poetry from a young age and went on to receive a Master’s Degree in English Literature at Indiana’s Perdue University, after which time he became an English professor.
The intimate reading will take place at the home of the Wilsheres, Nicolas Bravo 35 in Ajijic. (At the end of Nicolas Bravo, turn right at the beach, and the entrance is the first door on the right, facing the lake.) Doors open at 3:30 p.m. and close at 4 p.m., when the reading begins, so arrive early. Once the reading begins, there will be no interruptions.
All are welcome, with or without prior reservations. “The Alphabet of Longing” will be available for purchase, including some signed copies. For information, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..