Local Author Uncovers Jim Morrison’s D.C. Roots In New Book, Signing Set For Leonardtown

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — Author Mark Opsasnick will appear at Fenwick Street Used Books & Music on Sunday, June 8, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. to discuss and sign copies of his latest book, “Orange Brick in Warm Sun: Jim Morrison in DC.” The event offers fans a rare opportunity to explore the early life of The Doors’ legendary frontman through the eyes of a local historian.

Opsasnick has authored nine books, including several focused on Washington, D.C.’s rich rock history. His new work delves into Jim Morrison’s formative years in and around the nation’s capital, tracing how the singer’s teenage experiences influenced his path to becoming one of rock and roll’s most iconic figures.

Morrison, best known as the frontman of The Doors from 1965 until his untimely death in Paris in 1971 at age 27, spent his high school years in Alexandria, Virginia. He graduated from George Washington High School in 1961 and later studied theatre arts at UCLA, graduating in 1965.

“I listened to his music in high school in the 1970s. He was a great rock and roll singer,” Opsasnick said. “I enjoyed their music for years but didn’t learn that he grew up in Alexandria. How did a teen from there become a rock ’n’ roll icon?”

Opsasnick first explored Morrison’s local ties in his earlier book “The Lizard King Was Here: The Life and Times of Jim Morrison in Alexandria, Virginia.” This new volume builds on that foundation, incorporating fresh interviews and new perspectives. “I had more info from his closest high school friends and acquaintances who accompanied him to what he called ‘destinations’ in D.C.,” Opsasnick noted. “Art galleries, libraries, book shops, movie theatres and night clubs.”

Among the revelations in “Orange Brick in Warm Sun” is Morrison’s first known public performance — reading the poem “Horse Latitudes” at a D.C. venue called Coffee ’n’ Confusion. Though not involved in the music scene during his teen years, Morrison’s deep interest in literature and poetry took root in this period, seeding themes that would later emerge in his music.

Opsasnick, who worked for 28 years as a social worker before turning to writing full time, said his passion lies in uncovering overlooked historical narratives. “My talent was asking myself questions and looking for answers. I got interested in looking for historical data — material that’s difficult to find in books in the library. Usually an unusual topic of local interest.”

Opsasnick says he likes to dig up material that hasn’t been published before and try to present it in a simplified way.

His books include titles on D.C. rock history and popular culture, as well as a deep dive into the making of “The Exorcist.” His research materials, including interviews, notes and archives, are preserved in the Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library at the University of Maryland as part of the Mark Opsasnick Papers.

Sunday’s event at Fenwick Street Books, located at 41665 Fenwick St. in Leonardtown, will start at 1 p.m., where Opsasnick will do a brief introduction on the book, followed by a book signing and Q&A session. For more information, visit https://fenwickbooks.com.

Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com 

Related