proof /prūf/:  

1. (n.) A document used to confirm final corrections before publication. 

2. (n.) An entity or idea that establishes the undeniable and irrefutable.  

3. (adj.) Used in a battery of tests, or as a standard for the purpose of comparison.  

4. (n.) A confirmation of strength based on a process of maturation. 

           Example: spirits. 

5. (v.) “the music of ourselves to wrap/the other in,” Mari Evans. 

6. (n.) Evidence—in our walk, in the water, what is and forever shall be. 

7. (adj.) That something (you know it when you read it). 

8. (n.) A Midwest Lit Fest. 

Looking for proof that the Midwest is a great place to be a writer, reader, and lover of all things literary? Join Indiana Humanities on Oct. 10-11 for a second year of Proof: A Midwest Lit Fest, celebrating the power of writing that grows in the Midwest.

This year’s festival will be bigger and better than ever. Like last year, you can expect a book fair with local booksellers, conversations about the literary Midwest, local and regional author readings, opportunities to connect with publishers and literary magazines, and a local author mixer.

To fit in all this literary excitement, Proof will begin on Fri., Oct. 10 with a keynote conversation between poets Bernardo Wade and Ross Gay. Throughout the weekend, you can expect even more workshops led by experienced writers, expanded hands-on bookish activities for all ages, and literacy activities for young readers, along with food trucks, music, games, and prizes. And, as the sun sets on Saturday, we’ll close our celebration with a rooftop open mic!

Proof is free and open to the public, though we encourage you to register so we can let you know about exciting festival updates and a full schedule of activities. We are grateful to our neighborhood partners who have agreed to host Proof activities throughout the weekend, including The Harrison Center, Loudmouth Books, the Indianapolis Propylaeum, and Foundry Provisions.

About Proof: A Midwest Lit Fest

Proof: A Midwest Lit Fest was developed by local poets Mitchell L.H. Douglas and Chantel Massey in partnership with Indiana Humanities, home of the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana Authors Awards. We also offer thanks to our festival partners including Tomorrow Bookstore, Silent Book Club Indy, Paws & Think, and many more.

Proof would not be possible without our sponsors, including the Poetry Foundation, Herbert Simon Family Foundation, Indiana University Health, Harrison Center, The National Bank of Indianapolis, Penrod Society, and hello & handshake.

About Indiana Humanities

Indiana Humanities sparks curiosity, connects people, and explores the human experience through programs, grants, and storytelling. Learn more about our efforts to encourage Hoosiers to think, read, and talk by visiting www.indianahumanities.org.

Volunteer at Proof!

Interested in volunteering to help make the festival run smoothly? Fill out this form to let us know!  

Accessibility & Accommodations

We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible event for all participants. We will make every reasonable effort to provide accommodations to ensure all attendees can engage fully. If you require accommodations to fully participate, or have questions about parking or accessing the venues, please contact Megan Telligman at mtelligman@indianahumanities.org.

Photo & Video

By attending this event, you acknowledge that photographs and video recordings may be taken for promotional and archival purposes. These materials may be used in future communications, including but not limited to websites, social media, newsletters, and printed materials. 