Colombo’s Literary Canvas: Inspirations and Conversations

11th of February 2024 | Colombo Public Library

Step into the second day of the Colombo chapter of the Ceylon Literary Festival on the 11th of February. As the city pulses with creative energy, immerse yourself in a day rich with literary dialogue and cultural introspection. Explore sessions that tackle the art of sleep, the complexities of ‘home’ in literature, and engaging conversations with world-renowned playwrights. Delve into discussions about the nuances of political correctness in literature, the intriguing world of detective fiction, and the impact of AI on the future of writing. The day promises to be a blend of thought-provoking discussions and cultural appreciation, set against the backdrop of Colombo’s dynamic spirit. Don’t miss this chance to be part of an ongoing celebration of literary excellence in the heart of Sri Lanka’s capital.

Sessions:

10:00 – 10:45 – Zzz . . .

Do you have trouble sleeping? Let Giles Watkins, the Guru of Sleep and author of the book Positive Sleep teach you the fine art of getting a decent night’s rest. Moderated by Mrinali Thalgodapitiya

10:00 – 10:45 – But Where Exactly is Home?

Authors Ronya Othman, Amanthi Harris and VV Ganeshananthan discuss what it means to leave home, and how this upheaval has fashioned their literature. Moderated by author-in-exile Marguerite Richards

12:00 – 12.45 – David Hare in Conversation

One of the world’s greatest living playwrights, David Hare, talks about his life and his work. Moderated by Professor Neluka Silva

14:00 – 14.45 – Woke me up, before you Go-Go

In our frantic efforts to stay within the ever-changing boundaries of political correctness, have we killed off humour?  Sensitivity readers and cancel culture are all the vogue: are they bringing us swiftly back to the age of burning books? Prajwal Parajuly, Louise Doughty and Sonora Jha discuss. Tania Warnakulasuriya moderates. Pass me the matches, someone.

15:00 – 15.45 – The No. 1 Ladies’ Detectives

Three wicked ladies, all masters of murder mystery and mayhem, plot their next crime. Will it be The Bloated Body at the Bottom of the Beira? The Macerated Mummy in the Maligawa? Anita Nair, Shrabani Basu and Carmel Miranda, moderated by Chhimi Tenduf-la. Watch your backs, people.

16:00 – 16.45 – Help! AI chewed up my manuscript!

In a world increasingly run by AI, are authors safe? Or will we go the way of rickshaw-pullers and chimney sweeps – mythical creatures of a malodorous past? Louis de Bernieres, Lal Medawattegedara and Preeti Shenoy current Gratiaen winner Yudhanjaya Wijeratne discuss this dying art.

17:00 – 17.45 – The White Moghul speaks

William Dalrymple, one of the world’s most beloved historians, talks about his stellar career. William Dalrymple in conversation with Ashok Ferrey

18:00 – 18.45 – Free Event- The Magic of Motown

Famous Scottish radio personality Stuart Cosgrove takes us through the 70s and the marvellous magic of Motown music.