William Taylor: The author of The Passion of My Timesreads from his work in this kickoff event for Black History Month. Tue., Feb. 1, 12:30 p.m., free. Stacey's, 581 Market (at Second St.), 421-4687, www.staceys.com.
Tuesday at Pat's Cafe Reading Series: Each weekly formal reading is followed by an open mike session for fledgling writers. Tuesdays, 7 p.m., free. Pat's Cafe, 2330 Taylor (at Columbus), 905-8837.
What Kind of State Are You Livin' In?: AK Press celebrates the release of the new album States of Abusewith a night of spoken-word anarchist hip hop propaganda. Fri, Jan. 28, 7 p.m., free AK Press 674A 23rd St. (at San Pablo), Oakland, 510-208-1700.