Literaturhaus Europa invites for the 9th European Literature Days
Fear has a profoundly disconcerting effect on life today. We encounter its subtle nuances at every turn – be it the fear of those who flee and those who fear refugees, fear of conflict, religious fundamentalism or even climate change. In the setting of one of Europe’s unique cultural landscapes, Wachau, the European Literature Days 2017 again invite international writers and literary experts to explore the headline theme “Fear Everywhere”. From 16 to 19 November the debate will be led by Philipp Blom, Gila Lustiger, Sergej Lebedew, Elisabeth Åsbrink, Andrzej Stasiuk and Elif Shafak.
The Literature Days open on Thursday evening in the Krems Minoritenkirche: Robert Menasse and Philipp Blom consider the effects of climate change on Europe. On Friday, at Schloss Spitz, Writer Q&A sessions focus on the theme “Fear Everywhere” with authors including Elisabeth Åsbrink, Aleš Šteger, Deborah Levy, Jaroslav Rudiš and Leif Randt. How is the year 1947 connected to current events? Can terror attacks be avoided in future? What is the influence of conflict and deeply shocking events on literary life? Moreover, can empathy be an antidote to fear?
The 2017 agenda also features readings and dialogues with writers (including Arno Camenisch and Sharon Dodua Otoo), visits to top cultural attractions (e.g. Karikaturmuseum Krems, Stiftsbibliothek Melk) and excursions to the wonderful Wachau countryside. The estate Weingut Lagler provides fine wines with a Saturday highlight being the dinner and gourmet recipes inspired by Stevan Paul’s novel “Der große Glander”. The Literature Days close with a Sunday matinee when Cornelia Travnicek, Wolfgang Puschnig and Jonathan Sass perform poetry and jazz.
Daily news bulletins from the European Literature Days 2017 are uploaded to the blog written by Rasha Khayat (www.literaturhauseuropa.eu) and followed by short films streamed on Okto.TV.
For further information visit here.