Writers Amiri Baraka and Joseph O'Neill

Location: Folger Shakespeare Library

Photos by Tony Powell

SIZZLING START: Usually a genteel affair with readings by noted authors on a special topic, this year’s “Promises, Promises” theme inspired novelist Terry McMillan and poet Amiri Baraka to seize the spotlight with attacks on the GOP presidential ticket. SETTLING DOWN: Christopher Buckley and other participants defused the situation with less dyspeptic contributions that were later reinforced by digestion-soothin Champagne-and-peach-glazed poussin, parsnip potato mash and coconut cake timbale. G-LITERATI: Sen. Patrick Leahy, David and Katherine Bradley, Lisa Pumphrey, Lucky Roosevelt, Connie Carter, Lolo Sarnoff and Cynthia Howar.