Katabasis Literary Mixer : A Masquerade Through Hell

You are invited to masquerade through hell!

On August 26th, we celebrate R.F. Kuang’s new novel Katabasis.

On a mission to resurrect their PhD supervisor, Alice and Peter go on a katabasis—a harrowing descent through the Eight Courts of Hell. Masquerade through Hell. A night of surreal magic, spiritual mischief, dark academia, and devilish delight. Step into a realm where literature, ritual, and festivity meet—where the veil between the living and the dead grows thin.

Think Dante’s Inferno, the infamous Satan’s Grand Ball from The Master and Margarita, Milton’s Paradise Lost, or Odysseus’s descent to the dead.

Experience live astrology and tarot readings, and watch as pentagrams are drawn to summon the mystic atmosphere of the underworld.

Costume contest details tbd

Dress to disturb and delight. Masks (masquerade) required. Sins are optional—but strongly encouraged.

TICKETS INCLUDE: An open bar, food, a tarot or astrology reading, and exclusive Katabasis merchandise. You’ll also receive your choice of either a deluxe edition of Katabasis or a $40 gift certificate to use in-store anytime.

"Herr Gott, Herr Lucifer—Beware. Beware.

Out of the ash I rise with my red hair, And I eat men like air."

Sylvia Plath

Host or Publisher Queen Books