Brage Prize 2024: A Night of Literary Luminosity!
Ah, the Brage Prize! It’s the annual literary event where the fountain of creativity overflows, and everyone gets a nice shiny trophy to pose with. This year, the ceremony took place at the splendid Vulkan in Oslo, with the audience more electrified than a poodle on a power line! It’s refreshing to see women dominating the nominees, proving once again that the best thing about a good book is its author, especially when that author has two X chromosomes!
A Towering Talent Takes Center Stage
As culture swirled around like a fine Merlot, the jury proudly heralded the honorary award recipient, the legendary Lars Saabye Christensen (71). With nearly 70 publications ranging from poems to short stories, this literary wizard has showered readers with a deluge of compelling narratives since his debut in 1976. Seriously, this man writes more than I breathe during my stand-up sets!
Upon receiving the award, Christensen reminisced about his humble beginnings selling poems at Karl Johan, saying, “I had no plans then, except that I wasn’t going to stand there all my life selling poems…” His acceptance speech suggested that the novel is alive and well, despite rumors to the contrary. And he reminded us all that a good poem can still make the heart flutter, even if you don’t understand a word of it!
Fiction Under Fire
Next in line for a well-deserved spotlight was Kathrine Nedrejord, who claimed this year’s fiction prize for her thought-provoking book, “Sameproblemet.” This fierce narrative delves into the Sami experience, striking blows against Norwegian society’s oppression. Talk about bringing a howitzer to a knife fight! A reviewer labeled it a serious “indictment” against societal norms, and I reckon if she walked into a room with a party hat, it would turn into an interrogation room!
Insights From the ‘Stans
Then we had the phenomenal Ayesha Wolasmal, whose publication “A Thousand Days with the Taliban” painted a riveting picture of Afghanistan post-Taliban take-over. Wolasmal didn’t just warm hearts; she served up a slice of reality that resonates like your favorite song on repeat! “When I say Afghanistan now, I hope people might think love, flowers and friends,” she declared, demonstrating that there’s a heartbeat beneath the war-torn narrative.
Voices of the Future
But wait, there’s more! The non-fiction category for children and young people saw Kristina Quintano win for “Flukt”, a book giving a face and voice to youth on the run. Quintano thanked the brave young souls who shared their stories—because nothing says “thank you for being brave” like a trophy and a good, long round of applause!
Childhood – The Good, The Bad, and The Cute
The children’s book category was handled deftly by Kristine Rui Slettebakken and Nora Brech with “Billie and Bo and the Heidundrande’s Christmas”. When Slettebakken took the stage and declared, “Shit man!” the audience collectively chuckled, because nothing breaks the ice like a good surprise expletive. Talk about relatable!
The Conclusion: Stories That Save Us
Since 1992, the Brage Prize has been a beacon illuminating the brilliance of Norwegian literature. As the evening unfolded, tales were told that not only entertained but also sparked deeper reflection. In a world that sometimes feels more like a soap opera than a storytelling haven, these authors remind us that every story has the potential to save us, especially when it comes with a cheeky joke or an impromptu poem!
So, hats off to our winners and nominees! Until next year, keep reading, keep writing, and remember: novels aren’t just alive—they’re thriving!
The prestigious Brage award ceremony took place at Vulkan in Oslo on Thursday evening, where Culture Minister Lubna Jaffery (Ap) was distinguished among the honored recipients. Remarkably, this year’s nominations showcased a significant presence of female talent within the literary community.
– The honorary award of this year is bestowed upon an author renowned for an extensive and impressive bibliography that encompasses nearly 70 publications. The jury highlighted the remarkable diversity of genres represented in this author’s body of work, signaling a broad artistic reach, reflecting a variety of themes and styles.
Lars Saabye Christensen (71) is celebrated for his prolific contributions to literature, having crafted poems, novels, plays, short stories, song lyrics, children’s literature, and works of non-fiction. His writing is consistently marked by exceptional literary quality and precision, resonating deeply with a substantial audience.
– The Brage Prize’s honorary prize for 2024 recognizes an outstanding writer whose literary journey began with his debut in 1976. Since then, he has delighted nearly the entire Norwegian population with a multitude of thought-provoking reading experiences, both grand and subtle.
A united audience at Vulkan rose to their feet in applause as Saabye Christensen took center stage to receive his accolade.
– Fifty years ago, I stood at Karl Johan selling poems. Back then, I had no specific plans beyond the certainty that I wouldn’t remain there forever. However, I would sell poems because I didn’t feel equipped to do anything else at the time. Saabye Christensen expressed to enthusiastic cheers from the audience.
In a powerful acceptance speech, he passionately asserted that the novel is not only alive but thriving, pointing out a generational shift in the landscape of Norwegian literature. He concluded his speech with a poignant self-penned poem:
“Before I was happy, now I’m in a better mood.”
– Whiplash against the body of society
– The jury lauded Kathrine Nedrejord’s “Sameproblemet” as a compelling narrative that employs an outsider’s perspective to shed light on significant societal issues, earning her this year’s fiction prize.
In a glowing review, Dagbladet’s critic awarded the book a six, describing it as a powerful Sami indictment of the oppression, mockery, and racism faced by the indigenous community at the hands of the Norwegian majority.
– The book does not reflect well on Norway as a nation. After engaging with this text, one cannot help but feel that the insightful critiques of societal structures are richly deserved, the jury remarked.
A visibly moved Nedrejord accepted her award, taking a moment to express gratitude to her family, extended family, friends, and her publisher, Oktober.
– I was too nervous to prepare any remarks, believing it would bring bad luck, Nedrejord confessed to warm applause from attendees.
She expressed that without the support of her publisher, she would not have realized her ambitions to publish her recent works. Earlier this autumn, Nedrejord received the October Prize of NOK 150,000 for her work “The Sami Problem.”
– Not just war and hostility
The Brage Prize for non-fiction was awarded to Ayesha Wolasmal’s insightful narrative “A Thousand Days with the Taliban,” which explores the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in 2021 amid an international withdrawal.
Having lived in Afghanistan, Wolasmal offers a unique perspective, drawing on her access to Taliban leaders and local citizens, detailing events that transpired when global focus faded.
– Her storytelling is both captivating and tender, illuminating a nation embroiled in decades of conflict while showcasing the resilience of ordinary people, the jury noted.
Wolasmal’s ability to infuse humor in dark situations was also highlighted.
– Previously, when I mentioned Afghanistan, the immediate response was only thoughts of war and hostility. Now, when I say Afghanistan, I hope to inspire thoughts of love, flowers, and friendships, Wolasmal shared from the stage.
Inside the Taliban
During her acceptance, Wolasmal acknowledged her family, describing them as a “quirky family of welfare recipients,” emphasizing they embody much more than that label. She also expressed love for her mother, who was present in the audience.
– Mom is here today, dazzling in a beautiful sequined dress, said Wolasmal, before displaying a cherished photograph of her father.
– He may be turning in his grave now, but we accomplished this!
Wolasmal’s speech was filled with humor, revealing later that her remarks were entirely spontaneous.
– Behind every accomplished writer, there’s often a mullah called Ivar, she joked, thanking editor Ivar Ivarsen from Kagge publishing for his guidance.
Gives a voice to youth on the run
– Many books tackle themes of war and the struggles faced by girls and women internationally, yet few address both in such a profound manner. This year’s author brilliantly encapsulated these intertwined narratives in a thought-provoking manner, the jury remarked.
The first award of the evening went to Kristina Quintano for her important work in the non-fiction category for children and young adults with “Flukt.”
Quintano’s writing gives depth and voice to young people navigating the challenges of displacement and conflict. The jury commended the structure and thematic clarity of her book, which invites thoughtful reflection on pressing global issues.
– I extend my heartfelt thanks to the young people who shared their stories, allowing me the opportunity to give a voice to their experiences, Quintano expressed from the stage, honoring the youth who participated in her book.
These are the nominees:
The nominees in the category “Fiction”:
Ayesha Wolasmal: A thousand days with the Taliban (Kagge)
Kathrine Nedrejord: The Sami problem (October)
The nominees in the “Children’s and youth books” category:
Kristine Rui Slettebakken and Nora Brech (ill.): Billie and Bo and the magical Christmas (Gyldendal)
The nominees in the category “Non-fiction for children and young people”:
Kristina Quintano: Escape (Vigmostad & Bjørke)
The nominees in the “Non-fiction” category:
Ayesha Wolasmal: A thousand days with the Taliban (Kagge)
Dag Solstad: The hardships of humanity (Gyldendal)
Source: Brage price
– The stories that save us
The Brage Prize has been a hallmark of excellence in Norwegian literature since 1992, serving annually to recognize the country’s finest literary works and contributions.
This year, the Brage Prize for children’s and youth books was awarded to the dynamic duo Kristine Rui Slettebakken and illustrator Nora Brech for their enchanting book “Billie and Bo and the Heidundrande’s Christmas.”
– This year’s winning book encapsulates the essence of childhood, as noted by the jury. It beautifully blends everyday life with exuberant joy, drawing connections to timeless tales from illustrious storytellers of the past.
The jury celebrated the power of imagination and creativity, stating that they can illuminate and uplift even the darkest corners of existence.
– In times of darkness, it is narratives that rescue us from despair, they concluded.
– “Shit man”! Kristine Rui Slettebakken exclaimed, her excitement palpable as she approached the microphone with Nora Brech at her side.
– I’m genuinely trembling with gratitude. Immense thanks to the jury and to Nora for breathing life into the characters I wrote about. Everything you contribute turns out remarkably beautiful, Slettebakken said, expressing appreciation to the Norwegian Children’s Book Institute and everyone who participated in the creation of her book.
This year, the Brage Prize was awarded in the categories non-fiction, fiction, children’s and youth books, and non-fiction for children and young people.
The honorary award recognizes a person or institution greatly enhancing the appreciation of literature and elevating the standard of written culture in Norway.
The list of previous recipients of the honorary award includes notable literary figures such as Ingvar Ambjørnsen, Vigdis Hjort, Jon Fosse, Anne Cath. Vestly, and Dag Solstad.
How does Lars Saabye Christensen’s legacy inspire both new and veteran writers in contemporary literature?
Rary talents across various categories. The celebration of literature during the Brage Award ceremony is a deeply cherished tradition, showcasing the diverse voices that contribute to the rich tapestry of Norwegian culture.
This year’s ceremony highlighted a remarkable year for female authors, with Kristine Rui Slettebakken, Nora Brech, Kathrine Nedrejord, and Ayesha Wolasmal taking center stage. Their works not only resonate with profound themes but also engage readers with humor, poignant reflections, and an honest portrayal of societal challenges.
Lars Saabye Christensen’s honorary award underscored a legacy of creativity that transcends generations, inspiring newcomers while grounding veteran writers in their craft. His acceptance speech, infused with humor and humility, echoed the sentiment that novels have not only survived but are flourishing in contemporary society.
Nedrejord’s win for “Sameproblemet” and Wolasmal’s compelling narrative on Afghanistan offer critical insights into issues often overlooked. They challenge readers to confront uncomfortable truths while also celebrating resilience and the beauty of human connections.
Quintano’s work stands out as a beacon for young voices, ensuring that their stories of struggle and hope are heard loud and clear. Her recognition in the non-fiction category for children and young adults is a testament to the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and understanding.
As the curtains drew closer on another vibrant evening of celebration, the Brage Prize once again reaffirmed its role as a vital platform for authors striving to illuminate the human experience through their words. The encouragement extended to both winners and nominees reminds us of the importance of literature in our lives, paving the way for future generations of readers and writers.
So, as we look forward to next year’s ceremony, let’s carry forth the stories that challenge us, the tales that make us laugh, and the narratives that illuminate the path forward. Literature, after all, is a powerful tool for connection, understanding, and change.
