A GROUP passionate about literature will discuss a book that shocked and dismayed when first published.
Charles Darwin’s Origin of Species by Natural Selection, written in 1859, is now considered to be a key work of both literature and science.
But at the time it provoked outrage among clergy and scientific communities.
Members of Wokingham Literary Society will hear a talk about Darwin’s early life, the books that helped form his conclusions, and the events leading to the publication of his theory.
The society shares a love of reading and literature through engaging talks and discussions with fellow enthusiasts.
Its Thursday evening meetings take place at Wokingham Baptist Church, from September to May, usually on the third Thursday of the month.
Talks are given by members or guest speakers, on literary topics of general interest – sometimes on a single author or poet; at other times on a specific theme.
Refreshments are followed by informal and lively questions and discussions.
No experience of literature is necessary, just curiosity and an enjoyment of reading, say organisers.
The society also runs a programme of poetry reading, and a monthly ‘I Have Been Reading’ session, usually online.
The next meeting, when Darwin will be discussed, will take place at Wokingham Baptist Church on Thursday, September 18, from 7.30pm until 9.30pm.
For information, visit: wokinghamliterarysociety.org.uk
