Join us at Hallwalls for an evening with author, journalist, and Zen practitioner Lee Carlson celebrating the release of his new book, A Single Excellent Night: A Man, a Mentor, and a Moment in Time! A longtime student of Peter Matthiessen, Carlson’s book explores their relationship and Matthiessen’s legacy. This event will consist of a talk from the author, to be followed by book signing. Books will be available for purchase from Talking Leaves Books. Purchase of your book from Talking Leaves and donation to Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center (via cash or QR code on-site) are the best way to support this event. 

More about the Book

From journalist and internationally recognized author Lee Carlson comes a life-changing memoir about our search for meaning and the personal relationships that shape us.

Down a country lane in a former stable hidden behind tall privet hedges, a small group of acolytes gathers at dawn, chanting softly in a dimly lit room. Their teacher—celebrated writer, naturalist, and Zen master Peter Matthiessen—urges them to be present, then settles into silence among them.

Among the spiritual seekers is novice Lee Carlson, in the grip of an emotional crisis. Staring at the wall before him, breath by breath, he asks: “Why such pain in this life? What is God? How can I love more fully?”

As Matthiessen promises, “All will be revealed.”

A Single Excellent Night traces the awakening experiences and formative moments from the first four years of Carlson’s 15-year apprenticeship with Matthiessen. More than a book on Zen or spiritual practice, it explores meaningful relationships, healing, mindfulness, and the search for presence and purpose. Rich with insight, it is a lyrical meditation on love, community, and the rare alchemy between teacher and student.

More about the Author

Lee Carlson is an author, journalist, and Zen practitioner whose acclaimed memoirPassage to Nirvanachronicles his recovery from traumatic brain injury using writing, sailing, and Zen. A former magazine editor and documentary producer, his work has appeared inOutside, the Los AngelesTimes, andmultiple Time Inc. publications. A longtime student of Peter Matthiessen, Carlson’s current book explores their relationship and Matthiessen’s legacy. He currently lives in Western New York. Learn more at leecarlson.life