With Reading List Berlin, authors Theresia Enzensberger and Patrik Gräb are exploring a different way to talk about literature and current debate: by looking at the sources. Each episode invites the guest to bring a short reading list that helps us to better understand their work behind the printed word. Which novels, poems, research materials or odd archival findings have inspired their writing? Looking at the source material provides the series with a structure for deep and unexpected conversations about writing – and reading.
To kick off the series, we are delighted to welcome the award-winning American author Katie Kitamura. She will talk about her personal reading list whilst working on her fifth book, Audition (Die Probe, published by Hanser). The Booker-Prize shortlisted, unsettling and enigmatic novel begins in a New York restaurant, where the narrator, a successful actress, meets a man named Xavier who claims to be her son. As Xavier forces his way into the life of the nameless narrator and her husband Thomas, the novel’s narrative world takes on a theatrical quality unfolding in ever-changing variations like a play being rehearsed. Author Katie Kitamura shares her reflections on the novels, plays, films and their role in the creative process behind Audition with hosts Theresia Enzensberger and Patrik Gräb.
The discussion will be held in English.
In cooperation with the American Academy in Berlin.