The PEN Literary Festival Is Still Running (In Bobst!)
By Olivia Loving
Everyone knows that the week before finals week is almost worse than finals themselves. This week has been crazy enough to stop us from going to one of our favorite literary festivals, PEN’s World Voices. But the events run through Sunday, which gives us plenty of time to take advantage of the later performances. Take note that some of these are in Bobst, free with your ID, and only a few steps away from your favorite study spot.
Tonight, 6 pm to 7:30 pm: As part of PEN’S Dialogue Series, Margaret Atwood will appear at the New School tonight to talk about writing in an online world. The ultimate BAMF, Atwood has had many roles: as a children’s book author, non-fiction writer, novelist, poet, and illustrator. Plenty of question-fodder and possible material for chats afterwards!
Tonight, 7:30 pm to 9 pm: Also tonight is Elevator Repair Service. This one is in the lobby of Bobst, which is apparently a selling point for festival managers.
The event is truly unique, as three performers will attempt to read (not our words), simultaneously, from The Great Gatsby, The Sound and the Fury, and The Sun Also Rises. If you can’t make it to any other event, go to this one: It’s on campus, free for NYU students ($25–30 otherwise), and very daring.
Tonight, 8 pm to 9:30 pm: This is Translation Slam, in which translators will “test their linguistic mettle against each other in a duel to the translation death.” The original authors will be present. We’re sure sweaty palms and goosebumps will be as well. Bowery Poetry Club, $5 for students.
Friday, 6 pm to 7:30 pm: If you didn’t get your copy of From The Goon Squad signed during Jennifer Egan’s post-Pulitzer tour, this is be your chance. More importantly, she’ll tell you “How To Create Your Own Rules” in writing, and what importance she gives to structure (none). In a post-Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close literary world, this event is topical and useful for aspiring writers. The New School, $10 for students.
Saturday, 3:30 pm to 5 pm: If you love children’s literature, or saw 2011’s Oscar-winning Hugo, you might want to meet the author of the original graphic novel, Brian Selznick. He will answer “what separates” adult and children’s literature, and if “children’s literature [can] speak to issues that literature written for adults cannot.” The New School, $10 for students.
And this isn’t even half of it. Though the events above are mostly readings and discussions, other highlights cross different genres. Lend your ears to Sufi music at “A Love Affair with Turkey,” or become an audience member in “John Cage: How to Get Started.” And at translation event “Go the F**k to Sleep,” watch writers of international fame swear without blushing.
