Confronting the Worst: Writing and Catastrophe

Moderated by Ms. Linfield, a group of writers discussed topics such as the writer’s role as documentarian, scourge to conscience and action, and moral witness. They also explored whether that role has been affected by changing technologies, particularly photo- and video-journalism and the Internet. This diverse group of writers who have made distinguished contributions to this literature shared reflections on writing about, and on trying to grasp, some of the most extreme horrors of recent history, such as genocide, war, and torture. After they read from their writings, they answered questions from the moderator and audience members. The introductions were made by Salman Rushdie.

Kapuscinski wrote The Soccer War. Alexievich wrote Voices from Chernobyl. Emcke wrote Letters from the Edge of the World. Gourevitch wrote We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will be Killed With Our Families. Poniatowska wrote Nothing, Nobody: The Voices of the Mexico City Earthquake. Bizot wrote The Gift. close