At a press conference in Hanoi on May 6, Oliver Brandt, representing the EU National Institutes for Culture (EUNIC), announced an exciting literary event fostering cross-cultural dialogue between European and Vietnamese writers.
The festival, with a focus on gender themes, will showcase a diverse range of literary works and events. It aims to celebrate emerging writers’ feminist and queer perspectives on timeless European classics, offering a unique twist to familiar stories.
As a highlight of the festival, German writers Nilufar Karkhiran Khozani and Jayrôme C. Robinet will engage in a thought-provoking conversation at the Goethe Institute in Hanoi on May 8. They will delve into the world of diaspora literature from a queer lens and explore the complexities and advantages of writing with dual identities.
On May 10, Czech author Alena Mornštajnová will captivate audiences in Hanoi with an insight into her novel, “Uncle Hana.” She will share her story-writing expertise and inspire writers, especially women, to embark on their literary journeys with passion and confidence.
The Goethe Institute in Ho Chi Minh City will also host a creative writing workshop on May 13, led by German writer Nilufar Karkhiran Khozani, offering a platform for young writers to hone their craft.
This year’s European Literature Days is made possible with the support of several cultural institutions, including the Goethe Institute, the British Council, the Cervantes Institute, and embassies of Spain, Italy, the Czech Republic, and Poland. The festival will run until May 19, offering a rich tapestry of literary experiences for all attendees.
Discover European Cultures Through Reading Books
The European Literature Days 2023 is set to bring the essence of European culture to Vietnamese readers, with authors and translators being present to enable readers to gain a deeper understanding through direct interaction.