It's been about a year since NPR ran a short interview with acclaimed writer Richard Russo, and what I recall about it is what seemed to be a bemused sense of wonder, appreciation and uncertainty about where he came from and what he'd accomplished. I could go back and re-listen, but I like the sense of wisdom and melancholia I remember about him, and don't want to take the chance of screwing that image up if I've forgotten something.

Russo's Pulitzer Prize-winning "Empire Falls" is just one of several novels, a memoir and short story collections in which the author explores astonishing casts of characters, whole communities, and a cross-section of situations, emotions and perspectives — as though a kindly wizard was gently shaking a snow globe of humanity (Russo would assuredly cringe at that mixed, ah, whatever it is. Hell, I'M cringing. And yet ...).

Russo's newest book, a collection of four pieces of short fiction, is called "Trajectory," and the author will discuss it and sign copies Wednesday in Mystic's First Congregational Church. It's a chance to see a genuine master.

Richard Russo, 6 p.m. Wednesday, Mystic Congregational Church, 43 East Maine St., Mystic; free, books available for purchase; (860) 536-3795.