Are you a book lover? Do you enjoy immersing yourself in the world of literature? If so, the Tbilisi International Festival of Literature is the perfect event for you. This annual festival, held in the beautiful capital city of Georgia, brings together writers, readers, and literary enthusiasts from all over the world to celebrate the power of words.
A Brief History of the Festival
The Tbilisi International Festival of Literature was first held in 2015, and has since become one of the most anticipated literary events in the region. The festival is organized by the Writers' House of Georgia, a non-governmental organization that promotes literature and supports writers in the country.
The festival was founded by writer and journalist Aka Morchiladze, who wanted to create a platform for writers and readers to come together and share their love of literature. Morchiladze believed that literature has the power to bring people together and break down barriers, and the festival has since become a testament to that belief.
The Festival Experience
The festival is a four-day event that takes place in various venues throughout Tbilisi. The program includes readings, discussions, workshops, and performances by writers from Georgia and around the world. The festival also features book sales, signings, and exhibitions.
One of the highlights of the festival is the opening ceremony, which takes place in the grand hall of the National Parliamentary Library of Georgia. The ceremony is a formal affair, with speeches by dignitaries and cultural figures, as well as musical performances and readings by writers.
The festival is not just for established writers, but also for up-and-coming talents. There are workshops and seminars for aspiring writers, where they can learn from experienced authors and get feedback on their work. The festival is a great opportunity for writers to network and connect with others in the literary world.
The Writers
The Tbilisi International Festival of Literature attracts a diverse range of writers, from established authors to up-and-coming talents. Some of the writers who have participated in the festival in the past include:
- David Mitchell, author of "Cloud Atlas"
- Elif Shafak, author of "The Forty Rules of Love"
- Hanif Kureishi, author of "The Buddha of Suburbia"
- Amin Maalouf, author of "Leo the African"
- Olga Tokarczuk, author of "Flights"
The festival has also featured many Georgian writers, including Nana Ekvtimishvili, Dato Turashvili, and Lasha Bugadze. The festival is a great opportunity for Georgian writers to showcase their work to an international audience and connect with writers from other parts of the world.
The Themes
Each year, the festival focuses on a particular theme or topic. Past themes have included "The Power of the Word," "Borders and Bridges," and "The City and the Writer." The theme for the 2021 festival is "The Future is Now."
The theme is explored through a series of discussions and readings, with writers sharing their thoughts on the topic and engaging in dialogue with the audience. The discussions are often thought-provoking and inspiring, with writers offering insights into their creative process and the themes that drive their work.
For example, at the 2019 festival, the theme was "Literature and Power." The discussions focused on the role of literature in shaping society and the ways in which writers can use their work to effect change. The festival featured writers from countries with different political systems, including Russia, Turkey, and Iran, who shared their experiences of writing in repressive regimes.
The Venues
The Tbilisi International Festival of Literature takes place in various venues throughout the city, including:
- The National Parliamentary Library of Georgia
- The Writers' House of Georgia
- The Museum of Literature and Arts
- The Tbilisi State Conservatoire
- The Museum of Modern Art
Each venue has its own unique atmosphere, with some events taking place in grand halls and others in intimate settings. The venues themselves are often works of art, with stunning architecture and design that add to the overall experience of the festival.
For example, the National Parliamentary Library of Georgia is a beautiful building with a grand entrance hall and a stunning glass dome. The Writers' House of Georgia is a historic building that was once home to the famous Georgian writer Ilia Chavchavadze. The museum of Literature and Arts is a modern building with a sleek design and state-of-the-art facilities.
The City
Tbilisi is a beautiful city, with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant literary scene. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, delicious food, and welcoming people. Visitors to the festival have the opportunity to explore the city and discover its many charms, from the winding streets of the old town to the modern art galleries and museums.
For example, visitors can take a walk up to the Narikala Fortress, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. They can also visit the Georgian National Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from Georgia's rich history, including ancient manuscripts and works of art.
Conclusion
The Tbilisi International Festival of Literature is a celebration of words, ideas, and creativity. It brings together writers and readers from all over the world to share their love of literature and explore the themes that drive their work. With its diverse program, stunning venues, and beautiful city, the festival is a must-visit for anyone who loves books and appreciates the power of words. So why not plan your trip to Tbilisi today and experience the magic of the Tbilisi International Festival of Literature for yourself?