Talk at the Biblio Café TRA l’altro, May 2023 ©Museo Hermann Hesse Montagnola
In the spirit of Hesse in search of new world literature
Sunday 19 October 2025, 17.30 · Biblioteca La Filanda, Via Industria 5, Mendrisio ♿
In 1929, Hermann Hesse published A Library of World Literature, a volume offering practical advice on how to curate one’s ideal personal library. But which books should be essential in a personal library in 2025? Nearly a century later, the literary landscape has changed profoundly. Notably, there is a growing presence of works by women, authors from marginalized communities, and voices from indigenous cultures. This evolution raises a crucial question: what belongs in the contemporary literary canon, and what is left out – and why? During this event, poet and philosopher Stella N'Djoku, along with special guests, will guide the audience on a journey through time and space, sharing the books that have been most influential to them. Each edition of Hesse Now – Una biblioteca della letteratura universale is an opportunity to symbolically expand Hesse’s library, incorporating works that reflect today’s evolving world.
In 2025, this format will celebrate its third anniversary with two special events, the second of which will be held right here, at the Biblioteca cantonale di Mendrisio La Filanda.
In English
Entrance fee: «Pay What You Want» principle. The event is open to all.
