Meet Ali Hosseini

Hosseini came to the United States from Iran in 1975 for college. His studies were in Chemical Engineering and Information Technology, but the interest in writing was always present. Even as his jobs changed around him--farm laborer, construction worker, security guard--one interest stayed constant. “I always retained my love of literature,” Hosseini says. “I’d work in the office all day and write stories after work.” Throughout college, Hosseini took every chance he could find to read and learn.

Only in graduate school did he start to take writing seriously. “This was during the Iran-Iraq war and after a trip back home to Iran,” he says. “I think these things and my experience in the US pushed me to want to write.”

While still working professionally, Hosseini published a novel and two short story collections in his native language in Iran. Being a full-time author was a consideration, but not yet a reality. It wasn’t until he began publishing stories in English that the dream became possible. “After my last professional job, I was able to give writing more time.”

“My writing has kept me close to my Iranian heritage and helped me learn the culture and way of life in a new country. Being an immigrant influenced by two cultures is important in my writing.” More information on Ali Hosseini’s two most recent works--The Place of Stones and The Lemon Grove--can be found at alihosseini.com.  His books can also be accessed through the Hudson Public Library.

Outside of writing, Hosseini enjoys gardening, helping out at the Hudson Community Garden, and walking along the Assabet River and the Rail Trail.

“I hope that the Armory Project Arts Center will be a place that will bring together people from different cultural backgrounds.” Hosseini says of the Hudson Armory Project. “A place that will celebrate art, music, and culture. I have come to appreciate Hudson’s Portuguese community with its long-standing roots in our town, and would hope that this unique aspect of Hudson could be showcased at the center. I envision a place for exhibits, classes (painting, writing, languages), workshops, and performances with something of interest for everyone.”

We hope you will check out Ali Hosseini’s work and appreciate his skill for storytelling.

Stay tuned for exciting updates on the Armory project coming in the next few weeks.  In the meantime, stay safe and connected, and be sure to support your local restaurants and businesses.