There is a symbiotic relationship that exists between language, culture, and history— each with their own amalgam of nuances that may not easily be grasped by an outsider. Simultaneously, an outsider’s perspective may bring to light insights that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.
How, then, are multi-lingual authors, poets, and playwrights able to express themselves eloquently in a language that is not necessarily their own, and write something that is faithful to the language they chose to write in while preserving their own identity?
Born in Tokyo, Japan in 1960, Yoko Tawada obtained a doctorate in German literature from Zurich University and has been living in Germany since 1982. The award-winning author has published a number of novels, poems, plays, and essays in both her native (Japanese) and non-native (German) language.
This Jul. 9, Tawada will be sharing her experiences as a bilingual writer and discussing the cross-cultural aspect of her literary journey at the Andrew Gonzales Hall in De La Salle University, Manila. The talk will start at 2:30 p.m.
The author will also be reading excerpts from her novel The Emissary. Writers, readers, and curious individuals may also want prepare some questions as there will be Q&A session held afterwards.
Admission is free, and walk-in guests are welcome but registered guests will be prioritized. You can register online to reserve a seat.
Images courtesy of The Japan Foundation, Manila.
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