Amor Towles Takes Center Stage at Literary Gala

A fire, a library threatened and a last-minute scene change could all be plot points in a bestselling novel. Fittingly, those elements set the stage for the Nashville Public Library Foundation’s Literary Gala weekend. When a June fire damaged the parking garage adjacent to the downtown branch of the Nashville Public Library, event organizers searched the city for a new venue. Montgomery Bell Academy stepped in and offered an ideal space, which event designer Lacey Fuson with Local Event Co. transformed for the occasion.

Library supporters entered the H. Frank Burkholder Wellness Center as soft jazz filled a lobby that — thanks to clever lighting and a central bar — had become an elegant reception. Literary Award Weekend co-chairs Tiffany and Alfred Degrafinreid, Lee Pratt and Neil Krugman, and Lindsay and Tyson Moore greeted the record-breaking crowd while servers moved through the room with trays of hors d’oeuvres. Many guests gathered to meet one man in particular: Amor Towles, author of bestselling books like Rules of Civility and A Gentleman in Moscow, who would soon accept the 2025 Literary Award.

Once guests took their seats, the co-chairs thanked sponsors and shared reflections about the honoree. “Mr. Towles knows how a few well-chosen words can transform us and tether us to one another,” Alfred said. Mayor Freddie O’Connell continued the program, discussing the Begin Bright program, a new initiative created to help young children learn to read.

Amor began his speech by reflecting on the Founding Fathers and their belief in an informed citizenry — that Americans must have access to the news, education and books. The room erupted with applause. He then discussed the novelty of reader feedback, the creative liberties he can take as a writer, and the role of history in his work. In the end, his humble countenance never sought the standing ovation he received, yet the entire room rose to honor him.

“What matters in life is not whether we receive a round of applause; what matters is whether we have the courage to venture forth despite the uncertainty of acclaim.” — Amor Towles, A Gentleman in Moscow