Many Writers (Press, 15 October 1987)

Next year’s Writers and Readers Week, set to take place from 16 to 20 March 1988, promises an array of discussions and readings featuring both local and international writers. A noteworthy participation from New Zealand includes sixteen esteemed poets, playwrights, and authors, such as Lauris Edmond, Maurice Gee, and Patricia Grace. Among the highlights, there will be a special evening dedicated to readings by Māori authors and a panel focused on the New Zealand short story. Margaret Drabble is expected to be the star attraction among the overseas writers, particularly following the publication of her tenth novel, "The Radiant Way," earlier in 1987. Drabble will engage in a panel discussion titled "Literature as Social Comment" and hold a dedicated hour to talk about her work. Kazuo Ishiguro, who has gained recognition in England for his novels "A Pale View of Hills" (1982) and "An Artist of the Floating World" (1986), will participate alongside Drabble in the panel discussion "Leaving Home, Coming Home.” Other notable authors from the United Kingdom include Michael Holroyd, Drabble's husband and a prominent biographer, and Robert McCrum, the editorial director of Faber and Faber, known for his novels and extensive work on the English language. From India, Nissim Ezekiel, a poet, critic, editor, and academic, will be part of the panel discussion titled "A Question of Language," alongside Charles Mungoshi from Zimbabwe, who writes in English and his native Shona, and Tongan poet Konai Helu Thaman. Canadian poet and novelist Michael Ondaatje, who was born in Ceylon and has authored a book on Buddy Bolden, will also join Holroyd and others in discussing "The Real Truth," as well as participating in the "Leaving Home, Coming Home" discussion. American writer Edmund White, known for his exploration of homosexual themes, will be part of the “Literature as Social Comment” panel. Additionally, talented German novelist Gerhard Kopf, already featuring on bestseller lists in Germany, will participate in the week's events. Opening the festival will be Keri Hulme, on the first day. The week will comprise a rich programme of group discussions, individual talks by writers, readings, and book launches, creating a vibrant atmosphere for literature enthusiasts. The full list of New Zealand authors participating includes Gill Boddy, Lauris Edmond, Maurice Gee, Michael Gifkins, Patricia Grace, Roger Hall, Fiona Kidman, Michael King, Rachel McAlpine, Sue McCauley, Greg McGee, Phillip Mann, Owen Marshall, Vincent O'Sullivan, Renee, and Ian Wedde.

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