by InTrieste
From June 14 to 16, the city of Trieste will host Bloomsday 2024, a celebration of James Joyce’s seminal work “Ulysses,” marking the fifteenth edition of this annual festival. This year’s theme dives into the eighth chapter, “Lestrygonians,” exploring the intricate relationship between literature and gastronomy.
Building on the previous year’s exploration of the sins of the flesh, this edition will delve into the sins of gluttony, examining their complexity and contemporary relevance. The selected episode, set at lunchtime in the novel, is rich with themes of food, appetite, and digestion, which Joyce himself described as “peristaltic prose.”
A Literary and Gastronomic Celebration
“Italo Svevo once remarked that ‘Bloom speaks but if there is a smell of food in the air, his brain is invaded by it,’” noted a festival spokesperson, highlighting the intertwining of literary brilliance and culinary delight that will define this year’s events.
The festival will showcase a letter from Joyce to his companion Nora, dated December 20, 1909, revealing his profound preoccupation with food. “Oh, how hungry I am now… I would like roast beef, rice in broth, mashed potatoes, pudding, and black coffee,” Joyce wrote, vividly illustrating his gustatory desires.
A Star-Studded Lineup
Trieste’s own Piero Dorfles, a renowned literary critic and television personality, will be the guest of honor, presenting a special edition of his famed TV show “Per un pugno di libri,” focusing on Joyce. Dorfles will be joined by presenters Martina Vocci and Riccardo Cepach, promising an engaging exploration of Joyce’s work.
The festival will revive its beloved “immersive” breakfasts, featuring amateur theater performances at the historic ex-Lanterna Lighthouse, managed by the Naval League. The opening conference, “Lestrygonians in Half an Hour,” curated by Laura Pelaschiar and Ester Galazzi, will set the tone for the three-day celebration.
Contemporary Interpretations and New Collaborations
In collaboration with ASUGI’s Androna Giovani service and ALT (Association of Citizens and Families of Trieste for Addiction Prevention), the festival will feature the youth group Hope Spot, led by Matteo Verdiani, to bring modern perspectives on themes like voracity and disgust.
The festival also introduces an exciting partnership with LEXIT escape rooms, presenting “Escape Bloom, Escape from the Kitchen,” a puzzle-solving adventure set in the historic kitchen of the Sartorio Museum.
Art, Music, and More
The artistic segment will see contributions from faceless artist Andy Prisney and paper engineer Annalisa Metus. Cristina Feni and Nanni Spano will present Prisney’s new book, while Martina Tommasi will unveil her latest volume in the series “Gastronomic Digressions on Ulysses.”
A highlight will be the new production “Lestrygonians: Gurgles, Teeth, Jaws, and Gorgonzola Cheese,” directed by Laura Pelaschiar and Paolo Quazzolo. This performance, involving students and professional actors, will take place at the Bartoli Hall of the Politeama Rossetti.
Connecting Cultures
Riccardo Cepach will facilitate a live connection with the James Joyce Center in Dublin, ensuring a cultural exchange between the two Joycean cities. Susan Petri’s workshop “Poppysmic Plopslop” will offer a whimsical dive into Joyce’s beloved onomatopoeias.
The festival’s musical offerings include the Folk Syrens concert featuring Celtic harp, violin, and soprano vocals, and “Crucis Verba,” a dance performance inspired by Joyce’s daughter, Lucia Joyce.
Culinary Highlights
Culinary enthusiasts can enjoy Joycean and Irish-themed food and wine events at the Knulp book café and the Mimì e Cocotte restaurant. The closing Bloomsday party, featuring the Irish music of Wooden Legs, will be hosted by the Bounty Pub.
All events are free, with the exception of food and wine tastings. For the complete program, visit Joyce Museum’s websiteand follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
