Latest Mississippi Writers Trail marker unveiled in Como
The latest Mississippi Writers Trail marker was unveiled Saturday in Como, according to a news release from the Mississippi Development Authority.
The marker, located at 104 Main Street, memorializes the artistic contributions of novelist and playwright Stark Young. A college instructor for many years, Young’s best-known work So Red the Rose was published in 1934 and later was adapted into a film.
“Stark Young was one of many voices for the Southern experience who translated the beauty and complexity of the Magnolia State into the written word for all to read,” said Visit Mississippi Director Craig Ray. “It is always exciting to see these cultural trail markers bring positive attention to Mississippi communities and to share the remarkable contributions of Mississippi artists to the tapestry of American literature.”
Born in 1881, Young enrolled at the University of Mississippi at the age of 15, graduated in 1901 and completed his master’s degree at Columbia University in 1902. While teaching at various colleges throughout his career, he produced artistic works including literary translation, poetry, drama, literature, criticism, and painting. He published his first volume of poetry The Blind Man at the Window and Other Poems in 1906 and his first novel Heaven Trees in 1926.
“When you think about the many world-famous writers from Mississippi, it is an extra special honor that Stark Young – and Como – were selected to receive a marker,” said Como Mayor Everette Hill. “After all his worldly travels, he ultimately came home again. He was a native son with a worldwide impact, and this new marker on Como’s Main Street will forever make our citizens proud.”
Ceremony attendees included representatives from the Mississippi Arts Commission and the city of Como. Professor Otis Sanford, Como native and Hardin Chair of Excellence in Journalism and Strategic Media at the University of Memphis, provided remarks.
