Renowned author Anne Lamott addressed a captivated audience at Sonoma State University’s Green Music Center on September 23, 2026, as part of The Press Democrat’s ongoing Women in Conversation series, which aims to foster dialogue among women across diverse backgrounds. Lamott, who has penned an impressive array of novels and nonfiction books, encouraged aspiring writers to tackle the challenging subjects in their writing during her session.
“Do the deep dive into the stuff that is most meaningful to you,” she advised the gathering, emphasizing that initial drafts may not be perfect but that the pursuit of truth is exhilarating. “Truth is thrilling. Real is thrilling.”
The event was moderated by Karen Strolia, the CEO of the Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership, and Crissi Langwell, the vice president of the California Writers Club and an established author. Together, they guided the conversation, which was filled with moments of introspection and humor, resonating deeply with the audience.
During her talk, Lamott shared personal experiences, including the recent loss of her older brother, John, who had lived with her and her family prior to his passing. This profound experience shaped her reflections on aging and the meaning of life. “I’m coming out of a very strange period of my life,” she noted, capturing both the sorrow and serenity derived from their time together. “I have never experienced so much love and grace as the summer we spent together.”
As part of her insights into growing older, Lamott highlighted the challenges and blessings that come with age. She candidly discussed her health concerns, such as arthritis and declining balance, and the necessity of maintaining one’s well-being through exercise and medical appointments. However, she also articulated the relief that comes with letting go of superficial worries: “You start to realize that people are going to do what people are going to do, and that your help is not helpful.”
Lamott emphasized the transformative power of confronting one’s fears related to death and the importance of self-love. “To deal with shame and the feeling of not loving and accepting yourself is the deepest work we do, and the most healing,” she stated, urging the audience to foster a balance between self-care and service to others.
Her discussion broke down life’s complexities into digestible thoughts for the audience, encouraging them to embrace vulnerability in their writing and lives. “Write what bugs you and find out why it bugs you,” she proposed, urging attendees to confront the subjects they have long avoided.
Throughout her talk, Lamott also conveyed a message of taking risks, of engaging with life fully, and of the profound impact that can arise from the connections we form with others. “What will make you happy is self-love. What will make you happy is being of service to others,” she concluded, underscoring the importance of both personal fulfillment and community engagement.
The event left attendees with much to ponder, as conversations buzzed while they exited the venue, reflecting on Lamott’s poignant messages. Lamott herself described the experience as meaningful amidst her own challenges, reflecting on how she will return to her home: “More will be revealed, that I will have had this evening with you guys… So thank you, thank you, thank you.”
For additional details, please reach out to Staff Writer Hannah Harn at hannah.harn@pressdemocrat.com or call 707-521-4240.
