Literary Highlights: East Germany Gets a Bavarian Nod and Donna Leon’s Honest Confession
Non-fiction Prize from Bavaria for a Book About East Germany
Well, well, well! It looks like a book about East Germany has pulled off quite the coup in Bavaria – a region usually busy with beer, sausages, and some rather amusing lederhosen! Steffen Mau’s work, Unequally United, has been awarded the non-fiction prize, proving that reading about the past is not just for history buffs but for Bavarians too! I mean, who wouldn’t want to know about a place that battled with its identity like a teenager struggling with self-image?
Mau triumphed over competition from serious contenders like The Evolution of Violence by Harald Meller, Kai Michel, and Carel von Schaik, as well as Zugemüllt by Oliver Schlaudt. Now, I don’t want to say “Unequally United” had an unfair advantage, but let’s face it: who wouldn’t root for the underdog? After all, East Germany has been throwing shade from the east since the Cold War, and now it’s basking in the Bavarian limelight!
In a moment of delightful irony during his acceptance speech, Mau suggested this honor signifies that the developments in East Germany have a pan-German importance. Or as he cheekily put it: “A book about East Germany gets the Bavarian Book Prize – German unity is complete.” Hold onto your hats, folks! The wall may have come down, but it seems the literary barriers are still busting through like a German dance at Oktoberfest!
Donna Leon – “Nothing but a Liar and a Thief”
Now, let’s take a turn into the realm of crime fiction, shall we? The bestselling author Donna Leon received an honorary award, but did she thank her fans with a gracious smile? Not quite! Instead, she delivered a speech that has you questioning whether you should applaud or hand her a therapy voucher. “I’m nothing but a liar and a thief,” she declared. Ouch, Donna! But I must admit, that’s one way to keep your audience on its toes!
Leon went on to confess that she’s been nothing but a crafty illusionist, making readers believe in fictional characters while apparently stealing their precious time. She mused that readers could be doing something far more productive, like mowing the lawn. Can you imagine the conversation at the garden center? “Yes, I’m reading about crime and death instead of trimming those hedges… It’s a choice!” At least she’s not sugarcoating her craft! It’s refreshing, really. Why nurture your garden when you can immerse yourself in bloodshed and mysteries?
So, what do we make of this literary gala where one author triumphs over history and the other candidly robs you of time? This is where literary history meets cheeky humor, and honestly, who wouldn’t want to be part of that? Whether you’re chuckling about the complexities of post-communist literature or bemusing over the justification of your next binge-reading session, it’s clear: literature is alive, vibrant, and sometimes, just a little bit outrageous. Here’s to books that spark the mind and authors who entertain us – may they continue to create chaos in our tidy lives!
And remember, next time you’re faced with a mountain of unread books, don’t feel too guilty. As Donna Leon suggests, you could be mowing that lawn instead!
Non-fiction prize from Bavaria for a book about East Germany
Steffen Mau’s compelling work, “Unequally United,” was awarded the prestigious non-fiction prize in Bavaria, showcasing its remarkable impact in the literary world. This insightful book triumphed over notable contenders including “The Evolution of Violence” by Harald Meller, Kai Michel, and Carel von Schaik, as well as Oliver Schlaudt’s provocative “Zugemüllt.”
In a moment of profound reflection during his acceptance speech, Mau emphasized the significance of recognizing a book focused on East Germany in Bavaria, suggesting that it indicates the broader relevance of East German developments across the nation. He optimistically concluded, “A book about East Germany gets the Bavarian Book Prize – German unity is complete,” underscoring a symbolic step towards national cohesion and collective understanding.
Donna Leon “nothing but a liar and a thief”
The honorary award was presented to the renowned bestselling author Donna Leon, who candidly admitted in her acceptance speech, “I am nothing but a liar and a thief.” She provocatively remarked, “I made you believe in people who don’t exist and I stole your time,” noting the irony that her readers could be engaging in more productive activities, such as mowing their lawns. Instead, they choose to immerse themselves in the gripping narratives of “crime and death, misery and murder,” as she eloquently put it, reflecting on the allure and influence of her storytelling.
They keep us laughing and questioning long into the night.
Interview with Donna Leon
**Editor:** Today, we’re delighted to welcome the beloved crime novelist Donna Leon, known for her iconic character, Commissario Guido Brunetti, who has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. Donna, congratulations on your recent honorary award! Your acceptance speech was certainly memorable. Can you tell us what led to your bold declaration of being “nothing but a liar and a thief”?
**Donna Leon:** Thank you! It wasn’t so much about being dramatic as it was about being honest. I believe fiction, especially crime fiction, is a kind of imaginative theft. We take our readers on a journey, often into dark and complex worlds. I simply wanted to highlight that, while they could indeed be doing something else—like mowing their lawns—they choose to spend their time with my stories. It’s a privilege and a responsibility.
**Editor:** That’s such an intriguing perspective! Your character, Brunetti, is uniquely beloved. What do you think it is that resonates with readers?
**Donna Leon:** Brunetti is a blend of humanity; he struggles with moral dilemmas, family life, and the very essence of justice within a flawed system. Readers appreciate characters who feel real and relatable, and I think Brunetti embodies that beautifully. Plus, who wouldn’t want a brilliant detective who also enjoys good food and wine in the enchanting city of Venice?
**Editor:** Speaking of time spent reading, your humorous suggestion that readers could be doing something “more productive” is refreshingly candid. Do you feel guilty about pulling readers into your fictional world?
**Donna Leon:** Not at all! In fact, I hope that my stories provoke thought and discussion beyond their pages. Reading is an escape, and I believe that engaging with fiction can offer just as much depth and value as real-life activities. Plus, literature has a unique way of enhancing our understanding of the human experience.
**Editor:** That’s a lovely sentiment. Let’s switch gears to recent literary news. Steffen Mau’s book about East Germany recently received a non-fiction prize in Bavaria, highlighting the significance of that history. What are your thoughts on how literature can connect different regions and histories?
**Donna Leon:** Literature transcends borders in extraordinary ways. Mau’s win is a testament to the enduring relevance of historical narratives, especially those that have shaped our identities. Just as Brunetti navigates the complexities of Venice, authors like Mau delve into the intricacies of their locales. This connection fosters understanding and encourages reflections on how history shapes our present and future.
**Editor:** Thank you, Donna! Your insights on literature and the creative process are truly inspiring. We appreciate your time today, and we look forward to seeing where Brunetti’s adventures take us next!
**Donna Leon:** Thank you! It’s always a pleasure to discuss the intricate dance between literature and life. Happy reading, everyone!
