This October, we segue from our September discussion of the fires that devastated the Bronx in the 1970s – and the policies and people who allowed that devastation to happen – to a narrative by a native of the borough: Marshall Berman’s On the Town: One Hundred Years of Spectacle in Times Square. In it, Berman presents a history of “the crossroads of the world” that is both affectionate and sharply observed; his perspective will provide some welcome insight on the debate about desnudas, pedestrian plazas, and how we think about public space in the city.

The conversation will be led by Joe Flood, the author of our September book, The Fires: How a Computer Formula, Big Ideas, and the Best of Intentions Burned Down New York City-and Determined the Future of Cities.

This event is open to all, but we are limiting the capacity to 25, and reserving some spots for Van Alen members. Visit our membership page to learn more.

We’ll continue our tradition of providing drinks and a light dinner.

Visit the Verso website to order the book directly through the publisher.