Calne resident and celebrated author, Paul Ogden, launched the final instalment of his 'Insidious Vine Trilogy' at a well-attended event held at Café Damascus last week.
The evening featured a delightful Syrian buffet provided by café owners Nisreen and Tamer, setting the stage for an engaging celebration of literature and local talent.
Hailing from Lincolnshire, Paul moved to Calne in 2007 and has since made a significant impact on the local community.
A former president of the Chamber of Commerce from 2011 to 2013, he played a pivotal role in establishing Calne Springs CIC and dedicated eleven years as the pianist and organist at the local Baptist Church.
His diverse background as a self-employed voice and performance coach, primarily working with businesses like KPMG, has fueled his passion for storytelling and the written word.
The launch event was introduced by Councillor Ian Thorn, the Deputy Mayor, who praised the flourishing creativity in Calne and highlighted Mr Ogden's contribution to Calne's creative landscape.
'The Insidious Vine Trilogy', consisting of 'The Insidious Vine' released in 2019, 'The Insidious Sign' in 2021 and the newly launched 'The Insidious Line', weaves philosophical and psychological themes with dystopian and esoteric elements.
Readers have described the books as darkly humorous, exploring the nuances of truth through the lens of everyday life. “The characters are well developed and the writing draws you into their lives,” one reader noted on Amazon, praising the author's ability to intertwine life stories that reflect the complexities of choice and character.
Another review lauded the trilogy’s unique style, engaging readers with its exploration of interpersonal connections and the impact of individual choices on personal and collective narratives. As the festive season approaches, the author plans to promote his trilogy at the upcoming Christmas Festival of Lights. He welcomes questions from the community about his books and his creative journey, eager to share the intention behind his writing and engage with fellow residents. This celebration of creativity not only marks a personal milestone for the author but also reinforces the vibrant artistic spirit that defines Calne. With his passion for writing and active involvement in the community, the author continues to inspire and connect with those around him, proving that stories have the power to bring people together in unexpected ways.
