As the Knausgaard phenomenon puts contemporary Norwegian writing on the map of the English-speaking world (a map full of blank spaces, it must be said), or on the other hand, as it localizes that literature into a single name – (I could imagine the introductions between an up-and-coming Norwegian writer and an up-and-coming Chilean writer: “Hi, I’m the next Knausgaard. Who are you?” “Why I’m the next Bolaño. Nice to meet you.”) – there are, of course, other great books coming out of Norway, and now one of them is being published in English translation by Peirene Press.
The Blue Room by Hanne Ørstavik, translated from the Norwegian by Deborah Dawkin is a brilliantly narrated novella of erotic awakening, belief and mother-daughter relations told from inside a locked room. Read an excerpt in this week’s Saturday European Fiction.
There will be a number of events surrounding the book’s June 12th launch in London at which the author will be present, including:
Wednesday, 11th June, Peirene Experience at The Big Green Bookshop: An evening of literature, theatre and music celebrating The Blue Room. All served with a glass of wine. Tickets: £3. Book here.
Thursday 12th June: Peirene Supper Club At Book&Kitchen in Notting Hill. With maximum 14 guests. Tickets are £45, or £80 for two, including a three course meal, half a bottle of wine and a book. Details & booking here.
Saturday 14th June Peirene Salon, as always, at publisher Meike Ziervogel’s home in North London. An evening of literature, conversation, dinner & wine. £12 for Peirene subscribers, £20 for non-subscribers. You can book tickets for this Salon here.
Read more Saturday European Fiction
Photo by Niels Christensen
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