How Can Literature Mobilize Resistance?

Literature does not create revolutions—not by itself. But fiction, non-fiction, and poetry can mobilize resistance in several, often subtle, yet powerful ways. Literature, other forms of culture, and our uses of language change how people think, feel, and imagine the world. Thus, literature ultimately influences how people might envision taking action.

The following speakers will discuss this:

Geoffroy de Lagasnerie, a French philosopher and sociologist, argues in the manifesto #Manifesto for an Intellectual and Political Counteroffensive (co-written with Édouard Louis that intellectual production cannot remain neutral or “aesthetic”; it must take a stand, engage, and become part of societal debate. He criticizes what he perceives as a “depoliticized” academy and literature. Lagasnerie opposes the tendency to view far-right ideas as worthy subjects for public debate, seeing it as a way to legitimize them.

Uljana Wolf, a German poet, translator, and essayist, has challenged both linguistic and physical boundaries in her poetry. Drawing from her background in East Berlin, Wolf reflects on concepts such as nation, exile, borders, and the role of language in shaping or altering people’s sense of identity. Working across poetry, translation, and theoretical reflection, her practices create a bridge between art, language politics, and social analysis. This has made Wolf influential, not only as a poet but also as a thinker.

Agri Ismaïl, a Swedish author and cultural writer with roots in Iraqi Kurdistan, has written columns and essays concerning geopolitics, identity, societal changes, and literature as a means to understand power and everyday life. With a background as a lawyer in the international finance sector, a recurring theme in his writing has also been the growing economic inequality.

The three previously mentioned speakers will converse under the guidance of Jesper Olsson, a professor of literary studies at Uppsala University, who conducts research and writes about literature, art, technology, and media history.

Date och time: Friday March 20, 17.15–18.15
Place: Humanistic Theatre
Language: English
Free tickets but booking required via www.tickster.com