German P.E.N. Centre

Péter Nádas / Photo: Barna Burger

The P.E.N. organisation was set up in England in 1921 as a literary circle of friends and, championing freedom of expression, quickly established itself internationally. It is the voice of writers subjected to persecution and oppression. The following literary events will provide an insight into the work of the German P.E.N. Centre:

The Memory of Literature

The atrocities of the 20th century are reflected in literature. It documents man's sufferings and the snares that led others to perpetrate crimes. It names the murderers. It does not serve the reasonings of politicians; rather, it weaves the tapestry that unites the survivors and successors on this continent: the remembrance of victims and suffering, of responsibility and guilt. Through it we learn that we were not and are not witnesses to the events, but part of what happened and is happening.

An evening with three writers who will address their country's past. They come from three nations that played entirely different roles in the Europe of the 20th century. In each of these countries, however, history's gaze lingers on a sensitive spot. The three authors, from Turkey, Hungary and Germany, will read from their books.
Participating authors: Inci Aral (tbc.), Péter Nádas, Marion Poschmann

April 23, 2010
Venue: tbc, 19:00

Living and Experiencing Democracy - Between the Ruhr and the Bosporus
"P.E.N. an die Penne" - In Cooperation with the State Office for Political Education

Six selected authors, all P.E.N. members, will each work with one school class to examine a literary work. The common theme, "Living and experiencing democracy - Between the Ruhr and the Bosporus", can be developed as a piece of prose or a play.

Hermann Schulz and Dr. Jürgen Baurmann engaged by the P.E.N. will discuss the methodology with the authors and teachers in advance and offer suggestions. They will also be available throughout the project to provide advice. Adhering to the specified topic, the authors have carte blanche as regards discussions with the youngsters and the creation of one text to bring together the children's ideas and written contributions.

This project, implemented in cooperation with the North Rhine-Westphalia State Office for Political Education, will take place at different types of school in Duisburg, Dortmund, Essen, Hattingen and Herne.

The outcome, including a book, will be presented on March 7, 2010 at 15:00 at the "Wissenschaftspark Gelsenkirchen".

Readings by 53 P.E.N. Authors in 53 Cities of the Ruhr

On the anniversary of the Nazi book burnings, 53 P.E.N. authors will give readings in every city of the Ruhr.
With Liane Dirks, Ursula Krechel, Manfred Flügge and 50 other writers.

May 10, 2010
In 53 cities of the Ruhr Metropolis

You can find further information at:
pen-deutschland