This event is both and physical and online event.
Join an Anglo-Ukrainian all-star cast for the presentation of Writing under Fire, a collection of prose and poetry that reflects on Russia’s war against Ukraine. Roksolana Zharkova, Rostyslav Melnikiv, Ihor Pavliuk and others will perform their contributions via pre-recorded videos and/or live video links. Their work will receive a response by Wolverhampton poem laureate Kuli Kohli, award-winning novelist Niall Griffiths, poet Roy Macfarlane, translator Nina Murray and co-editors Professor Sofiya Filenenko and Professor Sebastian Groes (English Literature, University of Wolverhampton). The event also offers a panel discussion reflecting on the ongoing military crisis as well as on the importance of arts and literature in times of crisis, reiterating the connection and support between cultures, addressing war trauma whilst looking for a brighter future. You will be able to enjoy Holobtsi (Ukrainian stuffed cabbage), a glass of wine and traditional Ukrainian music performed by two classical musicians.
The event is free, but registration is required. You will be invited to buy Writing under Fire. The book’s proceeds will go towards supporting writers and readers in Ukraine.
The event commemorates Writing under Fire’s contributor Victoria Amelina, the writer who was wounded by a Russian missile in July 2023 and subsequently died of her injuries.
Online via Zoom
Physical Location: Ukrainian Community Centre, 154 Holland Park Ave., London, W11 4UH
This event is part of the 2023 Being Human Festival, the UK’s national festival of the humanities, which took place 9–18 November 2023. Led by the School of Advanced Study, University of London, with generous support from Research England, in partnership with the Arts and Humanities Research Council and the British Academy. For further information please see beinghumanfestival.org
