Lust for poetry : Diana Raab pens a tender — and naughty — volume

Montecito resident Diana Raab has released a revealing new work of erotic poetry.
Montecito resident Diana Raab has released a revealing new work of erotic poetry.

Diana Raab took some 15 years to put her fourth collection of poems together, not because she takes time writing, but because of the subject.

“Lust” (CW Books, $19) features a naked woman lying on a bed in a fetal position, her hair obscuring her face. These are private moments, it seems to say … come read what they are.
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SBIFF: Director David O. Russell receives SBIFF’s first award

Mr. Russell speaks with Roger Durling during Friday's program.
Mr. Russell speaks with Roger Durling during Friday’s program.

Director David O. Russell returned to the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on Friday night after a year’s absence to accept the Outstanding Directing Award.

Last year he arrived first as a panelist, one of six directors talking about their work, his being “Silver Linings Playbook.” Then he was an award giver, descending into the maelstrom of Jennifer Lawrence fandom to present her with an award for her young but stunning career.

This year it’s Mr. Russell’s turn to be in the spotlight and sit down for a career overview. His latest, “American Hustle,” is a clever romp with a cast of hilarious characters in New Jersey with the backdrop of the very real ABSCAM sting operation of the ’70s.

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Director David O. Russell receives SBIFF’s first award

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Director David O. Russell returned to the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on Friday night after a year’s absence to accept the Outstanding Directing Award.

Last year he arrived first as a panelist, one of six directors talking about their work, his being “Silver Linings Playbook.” Then he was an award giver, descending into the maelstrom of Jennifer Lawrence fandom to present her with an award for her young but stunning career.
Read More