November at Lettrétage

A breaking point in a relationship, the intrusion of the private into the political, breaking language into verses: in November at Lettrétage we will explore different kinds of breakage in literature. Together with numerous narrative voices, we will set off on journeys, examine the possibilities of the connections between activism and literature and attend events that break down the apparent boundaries between literature and other art forms. Book presentations, performances and discussion formats invite you to a diverse programme from the independent scene.

This months’ guest on the kilmé talks series will be the artist Steve Sabella on Tuesday, 12 November at 7:30 pm. kilmé talks invites Palestinian artists, intellectuals and academics to a monthly dialogue. Steve Sabella is an international artist whose primary means of expression are photography and photographic installations. His research focuses on the genealogy and archaeology of the image. The event will be moderated by Tyme Khleifi and Michael Barenboim.

We will embark on another journey on Friday, 22 November at 7:30 pm with the book launch of “The Salt Flats”. Rachelle Atalla tells the story of Martha and Finn’s relationship, which is hanging by a thread. In a last-ditch attempt to save their relationship, they join a group of tourists on a pilgrimage to the Salt Centre – a retreat in the middle of the Bolivian salt flats. United by the goal of spiritual enlightenment, the group embarks on a journey led by an illusive shaman. But during a series of salt ceremonies, hallucinogenic episodes force the travellers to confront their own versions of reality. Rachelle Atalla talks to Jane Flett about inhospitable landscapes, climate anxiety and the things we try to run away from. The evening will also include a Q&A with the audience and a book signing.

Ryan Ruby will then present his book “Context Collapse”: a Poem Containing a History of Poetry on Thursday 28 November at 20:00. Ryan Ruby is a poet, novelist, translator and one of the most respected literary critics in the Anglophone world. In November this year, the Californian-born Berliner-by-choice will publish his latest book. “Context Collapse: A Poem Containing a History of Poetry” (Seven Stories Press) is exactly what it sounds like: a playfully discursive, epic verse essay on the history of poetry itself. The reading and discussion will be moderated by local critic Alexander Wells, followed by a Q&A with the audience and a book signing over drinks.

A new edition of the DEAD LADIES SHOW will bring the month to a close on Saturday, 30 November at 20:00. The DEAD LADIES SHOW is a live podcast series that presents women who have achieved amazing things against all odds with the help of changing guests. In each programme, the audience is invited to a sexy séance of sorts to celebrate impressive icons, their turbulent lives and legacies that have survived death. This is your chance to learn about three extraordinary women who certainly did not do as they were told. This edition invites you to get to know Flora Tristan, Helen Duncan and Mary MacLane. Podcast producer Susan Stone and her popular co-host Florian Duijsens are joined this time by Magda Birkmann, an expert on almost forgotten literature by women. Katy Derbyshire will co-host the event. The event will be held in German and English.