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Two area authors visiting Newton Library
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This month two authors, with very different styles will visit the Newton County Library to sign copies of their work as well as discuss their writing process.

Salome Rowe of Rutledge will present pieces published in her latest book titled "Abstemious Doves" at 7 p.m. Jan. 15.

The book is a collection of poetry and photographs taken by Rowe in different settings across the state.

"My writing is a little different," Rowe said. "I combine philosophy and allegory together. I like to write about relationships - sometimes about faith, and politics if it hits me at the time."

She said she does not write "Hallmark card poetry" or that which is predictable and relies on heavy rhyme patterns.

Rowe said while she does not use strong end rhymes, her poetry does contain a definite rhythm and atmosphere.

She described her work as creating mental pictures and feelings as art imitating life.

"I want that what each person brings to my writing, determines what they take away," Rowe said.

Rowe will supply the audience with a brief overview of her background but said she didn't want to inundate the audience with her biography.

She also will discuss what inspires her creativity - whether it be a dream she wakes from and immediately writes or a overheard conversation jotted on napkin in a restaurant.

Langston Hughes, David Bloom, Alice Walker and James Baldwin are the authors Rowe said she most enjoys reading.

"I try not to emulate anyone, though," Rowe said.

She also occasionally retreats to Tybee Island in south Georgia to garner inspiration from nature.

"It's my place to go and just refresh myself," Rowe said.

Rowe also has published a novel titled "A Tale about Lilly" in 2005 and is expecting her book of children's stories to be published this summer.

Non-fiction author Margaret Heathman of Monroe will a share her newest publication "Knitting Languages" at 7 p.m. Jan. 29.

"It is a reference book," Heathman said. "It is a translation of 11 different languages into English, and vice verse, of knitting terms."

She said ever since the fall of communism in Europe, there has been an influx of patterns coming from countries that previously could not share their work.

The 2006 Knitting Olympics, the first, inspired Heathman to create a guide for knitters who wanted to branch out and experiment with international patterns.

The Knitting Olympics had teams from various countries competing to complete a project - whether it be a scarf, sweater or blanket - between the start of the 2006 Winter Olympics opening ceremonies in Turin, Italy, and the extinguishing of the Olympic flame at the closing ceremonies.

She said Web sites and blogs facilitated the competition.

"You don't have to go anywhere," Heathman said. "That's what's so great about it."

Heathman has published a few other knitting guides such as "Knitting Snowflakes."

"Most snowflakes are crocheted," Heathman said.

She also has written a knitting companion series, "Spiced up Socks" and "Spiced up Scarves."

Heathman said she would not only sign copies of her books but also discuss how to find a good knitting instructor as well as the difference between writing fiction and non-fiction. She said most people think to make a living on writing they have to publish fiction like Stephen King, J.K. Rowling or Michael Crichton.

"The reality is very different," Heathman said.