Poetry or stories, take your pick

This Friday, catch a little lit to start your weekend. If you’re in the mood for a drive and some poetry—including amazing translations of Pablo Neruda—head on up the hill to Placerville, where Red Fox Poetry will hold court in the El Dorado Arts Council’s new gallery, ArtSpace (459 Main Street in Placerville). William O’Daly, poet and translator, will be reading from both his own work and his translations of Chile’s Nobel poet at 7 p.m. It’s free, and includes a road trip.

If you’d rather hear a story—and stay in town—Friday is the monthly Stories on Stage reading series at the Sacramento Poetry Center. Scott Divine will read David Hagerty’s story “The Lead Out,” and Victoria Goldblatt will read “Midnight, Licorice, Shadow” by Becky Hagenston. SPC is located in the California Stage complex at 1719 25th Street; doors open at 7 for a 7:30 p.m. reading. A donation of $5 is requested.