by InTrieste
In an ambitious celebration of literature and ideas, the Pordenonelegge festival returns this September, marking a significant milestone with its 25th edition.
Running from September 18 to 22, the festival promises a rich and diverse program featuring 340 events and over 600 literary figures from around the globe. This year’s edition is set to explore new territories both thematically and geographically, embracing a blend of tradition and innovation that has characterized the event since its inception.
An International Literary Gathering
The festival, organized by the Fondazione Pordenonelegge.it under the stewardship of Michelangelo Agrusti and curated by Gian Mario Villalta, Alberto Garlini, and Valentina Gasparet, continues to attract an impressive roster of authors and thinkers. The 2024 program includes numerous premieres and novelties, generously curated to reflect contemporary themes and foster intellectual exchange. All events are open to the public free of charge, though seating is limited and priority access is available through the “Friends of Pordenonelegge” crowdfunding campaign.
New Venues and Historical Reflections
For the first time, Pordenonelegge will extend beyond its traditional confines, with the festival’s “Out-of-City” program reaching 43 locations, including a special preview event in Udine on September 17. This landmark occasion will feature acclaimed writer Antonia Arslan, commemorating 20 years since the publication of her poignant novel “The Lark Farm,” which revisits the Armenian genocide.
Further afield, the festival will host an array of events in Lignano Sabbiadoro and Trieste. Notably, Trieste’s Politeama Rossetti will showcase a theatrical reading by Emanuele Arioli, a distinguished medievalist who has uncovered the story of Segurant, a Knight of the Round Table, from ancient manuscripts.
Diverse Literary Voices
The province of Pordenone will also see expanded participation with new municipalities, including Brugnera and San Quirino, joining the festival. Each location will host a variety of authors and discussions, featuring prominent figures such as Franco Faggiani, Vera Gheno, Antonio Caprarica, and Gianrico Carofiglio. These events aim to engage communities in meaningful conversations about literature, culture, and society.
Among the highlights, linguist Vera Gheno will discuss the evolution of language, while Premio Strega winner Donatella Di Pietrantonio will delve into the complex dynamics of parent-child relationships in her latest work. Meanwhile, Matteo Bussola’s presentation on the intimate struggles depicted in “The Snow at the Bottom of the Sea” promises to resonate deeply with audiences.
A Festival of Freedom and Reflection
Over the past quarter-century, Pordenonelegge has evolved from a book festival into a celebration of freedom, offering a platform to explore pressing contemporary issues. This year’s festival will open with Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi discussing creation and ecology, setting a contemplative tone for the event. The festival continues to reflect on the present with live narratives and international perspectives, maintaining its commitment to intellectual and cultural enrichment.
Join the Celebration
The detailed program for Pordenonelegge 2024 is now available online at pordenonelegge.it, providing day-by-day schedules and event information. The festival invites all to participate in this extraordinary celebration of literature, where every page turned is a step towards understanding and embracing the changes in our world.
For more information, visit pordenonelegge.it.
