Every year, for more than four decades, the Moll de la Fusta in Barcelona becomes the epicenter of Catalan literature. La Setmana del Llibre en Català, to be held from September 8 to 17, 2023, is a major cultural event that brings together authors, publishers, illustrators and lovers of literature in Catalan.
This literary celebration is a testament to the ongoing effort to ensure the diversity and quality of books in Catalan.
The return of Setmana del Llibre en Català 2023
The 41st edition of the Setmana del Llibre en Català 2023 at the Moll de la Fusta in Barcelona, expanded its space to host a record 287 exhibitors, demonstrating the growth and continued importance of this literary event.
This edition also marks the first time that publishing imprints from Catalunya Nord have been incorporated.
Although it is called “Setmana” (week in Catalan), this literary event covers a period of 10 days, during which more than 300 activities are offered.
These activities include book presentations, literary debates, concerts, workshops, poetry readings, author signings, round tables and conversations.
The aim is to celebrate the excellent state of publishing in Catalan and to share the new publications for the fall season.
A special opening ceremony
The opening ceremony of the Setmana has a guest of honor: the Premi d’Honor de les Lletres Catalanes 2023, Josep Piera, who will have the honor of reading the opening speech of the Setmana.
In addition to the outstanding presence of Catalan authors, this year’s highlights include the visit of four internationally renowned writers whose recent works have been published in Catalan.
Among them are Swedish author Karin Smirnoff, responsible for continuing Stieg Larsson’s Millenium series; Korean author Han Kang, who will present her new book “La classe de grec”; British Roger Griffin, an expert on fascism; and Dutch Rob Riemenn, author of “L’art d’esdevenir humà. Quatre estudis”.
Poetry will also play an important role in the Setmana, with presentations by prominent poets such as Albert Roig, Jordi Cussà, Pablo Hasel, Jaume Vidal Alcover and Vic Moliner.
A poetic-musical slam will also take place, in which 31 FAM and Bounce Twice, two contemporary urban music groups, will improvise original replicas to a selection of poems.
Cultural podcasts and special presentations
One of the novelties this year is the recording of several cultural podcasts focused on the world of books, which will take place during Off Setmana. Among them are “Tàndem” and “Mentrimentres”.
In addition, presentations include a book collection called “Brunzits,” feminist poetry recitals, talks on 21st century Victorian women authors, and a live cooking demonstration of Greek recipes.
