Falling into Place - Author's Evening with Thomas Swick

Don’t miss this special opportunity to hear Thomas Swick share his extraordinary journey through love, language, and a pivotal moment in Polish history. Whether you’re passionate about travel, Poland, or great storytelling, this event promises insight, humor, and heart. All are welcome—bring a friend and join the conversation!

Falling into Place: A Story of Love, Poland, and the Making of a Travel Writer is a memoir that ties the story of the author’s quest to become a writer to that of Poland’s struggle to regain its independence—and throws a love story into the mix. After marrying his Polish girlfriend in Warsaw in 1980, Thomas Swick stayed for two years – teaching English, learning Polish, and witnessing the rise of Solidarity and the imposition of martial law. Before leaving in 1982, he walked with thousands of Poles on the August pilgrimage to Częstochowa.

In a lively and occasionally humorous talk, Swick will speak about his two and a half years in Poland – a time tense with dramatic, world-altering events – his discovery of its history and literature, and his abiding affection for its oft-overlooked people.

Thomas Swick grew up in Phillipsburg, NJ, and lives with his wife Hania in Fort Lauderdale, FL, where he spent 19 years as the travel editor of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. He is the author of four books, including Unquiet Days: At Home in Poland and, most recently, the memoir Falling into Place: A Story of Love, Poland, and the Making of a Travel Writer. His work has appeared in national magazines and newspapers, literary journals, online publications, and various anthologies, including six editions of The Best American Travel Writing. In 2024, the Polish ambassador to the United States presented him with the Amicus Poloniae award. In his spare time, he plays tennis, takes photographs, and draws cartoons. Some of his writing and cartoons can be found on his website: thomasswick.com.

Also check out other Arts events in New York, Literary Art events in New York, Sports events in New York.