Nancy is welcoming a very special guest this weekend: the renowned philosopher and author Edgar Morin. At the proud age of 103, Morin is presiding as honorary president over the 46th edition of the prestigious book festival Le Livre sur la Place, which begins on Friday, 13 September, and will bring together the literary elite of France and beyond for three days.
A “young” philosopher at an advanced age
Despite his age, Edgar Morin remains as active as ever. This year alone, he has published four books and remains a central figure in French intellectual circles. Festival director Sarah Polacci affectionately describes him as “a young man of 103.” Morin himself was initially surprised by the invitation to chair the event and joked that he did not know whether he would still be alive in September. However, this did not stop the organising team from sincerely inviting him – wherever he might be at that time…
A busy schedule for Morin
The festival program is packed for the philosopher. On Friday evening, Morin is expected on the stage of the Nancy Opera, where he will answer questions from journalist Laure Adler. Actor Philippe Torreton will also read excerpts from Morin’s novel L’année a perdu son printemps, published in June. An intimate moment that will highlight the philosopher’s literary depth and wisdom of life.
On Saturday, Morin will also take part in the opening of the Bernard Pivot literary forum, created in honor of journalist Bernard Pivot, who died in May. Pivot, who hosted the legendary literary program Apostrophes, was a major figure in the world of literature in France and had once chaired the Nancy book festival himself as president. For the festival team, it is an emotional moment—having Pivot’s daughters present is a tribute to the man who made literature popular in France.
Prix Goncourt favorites in Nancy
In addition to honoring Edgar Morin, the festival is also marked by the prestigious Prix Goncourt literary prize, which will be awarded this year on November 4. Six of the ten jury members, including jury president Philippe Claudel, are present in Nancy, adding further excitement to the literary competition.
Two authors are considered this year’s favorites: the Franco-Algerian writer Kamel Daoud and the Franco-Rwandan author Gaël Faye. Both will appear at the Nancy Opera and present their works. Festival director Sarah Polacci is enthusiastic about these novels: “Kamel Daoud’s book moved me on many levels—it is both political and poetic. And Gaël Faye has a unique voice.”
A literary event in Nancy
The literary festival Le Livre sur la Place has long been an integral part of Nancy’s cultural life and attracts thousands of visitors every year. In 2023, 130,000 literature lovers came to the city to meet the authors present, listen to discussions, and be inspired by new books.
With Edgar Morin as honorary president, an exciting program, and a number of outstanding authors, this year’s festival once again promises to be a major event. The festival ends on Sunday, September 15, 2024—but the conversations and impressions it leaves behind will undoubtedly resonate in the hearts of participants for a long time.