Georgi Gospodinov
What does loss do to us?
Georgi Gospodinov, born in Bulgaria, is considered one of the most important contemporary European writers. For his novel Time Shelter, he was awarded the International Booker Prize in 2023. His works are celebrated for their poetic power, formal originality, and philosophical depth. Gospodinov writes about time, memory, and the fragility of human existence – often from a deeply personal perspective.
In Death and the Gardener, which was named Book of the Year by the SWR Best List, Gospodinov approaches the death of his father. The novel combines autobiographical memories with literary reflection on farewell, grief, and transience. A deeply moving book about saying goodbye – and about the language needed to do so.
The conversation will be in English, some book excerpts will be read in German.
Organized by the bookstore Calligramme
If the weather is bad or uncertain, the event will take place indoors at Kaufleuten.
Enjoy sandwiches, snacks and drinks at the festival bar. Open from 7 pm.
Treat yourself to a fine dinner before the event at Kaufleuten Restaurant, open from 6pm.
The moderator will select a number of audience questions to discuss with Georgi Gospodinov → Here you can send your questions.
Each festival event comes with its own curated music playlist, inspired by the books, themes, and the unique atmosphere of the Old Botanical Garden.
Listen to this evening’s playlist → here.