Coming of Age In 1960's America: Peace, War and Revolution

Former Congressman, Author, And Cornell Alumnus Robert Mrazek on Moral Courage, Heroism, And the Book He's Been Writing Since 1967

While many of his former colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives became lobbyists, Robert Mrazek chose to become a writer. 

As a politician, he made it his business to learn about the people he represented, to hear the stories of ordinary people whose lives were impacted by Washington, and to tell those stories to ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens he served.  As an author, he continues to create narratives of the everyday and extraordinary people whose lives offer lessons to us all.

In his new book, And the Sparrow Fell, a coming-of-age tale set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, Mrazek tells the story of a wealthy family on the North Shore of Long Island in the spring of 1967. His protagonist, a student at Cornell before he joins the military, goes through a rocky journey of self-discovery as both his family and his country disintegrate around him.  It is an exploration of the meaning of heroism, both of physical bravery and moral courage, and the cost of war for those on and off the battlefield.

Mrazek will discuss 1960s America, the Vietnam War and how it has impacted what's happening today.  He will talk about his life in and out of politics, why he writes, and how the events of the past 50 years have shaped him as a writer and artist.  

Born November 6, 1945, Robert Mrazek grew up in Huntington, Long Island. He graduated from Cornell University in 1967 and then joined the US Navy.  After his discharge he began a career in politics. He served five terms in the U.S. Congress and wrote several pieces of landmark legislation. After Mrazek retired from politics in 1993, he turned to writing. He is the author of ten books, including two award-winning nonfiction works and seven novels, the latest being The Bone Hunters and Valhalla. He also wrote and co-directed the 2016 film The Congressman. He and his wife live in upstate NY and Maine.

6:00pm reception; 6:30pm lecture, gratis. Members and guests are invited to dine at The Club with Mr. Mrazek following the lecture. The cost is $40 per person, inclusive of tax, gratuity and one glass of wine with dinner. Dinner reservations are required 48 hours prior to the program. Same-day cancellations and no shows will be charged.