This is Beirut

'Hope': Pope Francis Shares an Exceptional and Powerful Memoir

Madeleine Cadoux, 14/01 14:00 - Reading : 2 minute(s)

Pope Francis Book Culture Writer Writing Autobiography

On January 14, 2025, Pope Francis released Hope, an exceptional and unprecedented autobiography. Originally planned for posthumous publication, the text was advanced to mark the Jubilee Year of Hope. Published simultaneously in more than 80 countries, the book is a historic milestone: no living pope had ever written his memoirs before. Co-written ...

Bob Dylan’s Words, Music and Influence Transcend Generations

Madeleine Cadoux, 12/01 19:00 - Reading : 2 minute(s)

Music Culture Art Singer Composer Writer

Bob Dylan remains an unparalleled force in music and culture, influencing generations through his profound lyrics and innovative sound. From his iconic songs to his unexpected ventures, Dylan’s legacy continues to shape the artistic world. With upcoming auctions and new releases, his timeless influence endures, reminding us why he’s a true ...

British Novelist David Lodge, Passes into His 'Small World'

This is Beirut, 04/01 14:00 - Reading : 3 minute(s)

London UK Culture Literature Writer

David Lodge, the celebrated British novelist who earned two Booker Prize nominations, passed away on New Year's Day at the age of 89, his publisher announced on Friday. Known for his sharp wit and insightful commentary, Lodge's works such as Small World (1984) and Nice Work (1988) were both nominated for the prestigious literary award during the ...

Joseph Tarrab, Art Critic and Chronicler of Beirut, Has Passed Away

Marie-Christine Tayah, 02/01 12:20 - Reading : 2 minute(s)

Culture Heritage Art Journalist Writer Critic

A journalist, writer, theater enthusiast, and art critic, Joseph Tarrab’s career spanned decades, resulting in a remarkable body of books and articles. Bestowed the title of Officer of the Order by Henri Le Breton, cultural advisor and director of the French Institute of Lebanon, on behalf of French Culture Minister Aurélie Filippetti, his ...

Breyten Breytenbach, Poet and Anti-Apartheid Activist, Has Died

This is Beirut, 2024-11-25 15:30 - Reading : 3 minute(s)

Africa France Writer Activist

Breyten Breytenbach, one of the most honored South African writers, left an indelible mark on literature and activism. Born in 1939 in Bonnievale, a small town in the Western Cape, he grew up speaking Afrikaans, a language often tied to South Africa’s oppressive apartheid system. Yet, Breytenbach transformed his mother tongue into a powerful ...

Barbara Taylor Bradford, Author of 'A Woman of Substance,' Dies at 91

This is Beirut, 2024-11-25 14:45 - Reading : 2 minute(s)

New York Writer Culture

Barbara Taylor Bradford, the celebrated author whose debut novel A Woman of Substance became an instant classic, died peacefully at her home on Sunday following a short illness. She was 91 years old. According to her spokeswoman, she was surrounded by loved ones in her final moments, and a private funeral will be held in New York. Over her ...

Boualem Sansal's Arrest: Literary Giants Unite Against Algerian Oppression

Bélinda Ibrahim, 2024-11-24 10:30 - Reading : 4 minute(s)

France Algeria Literature Writer Culture

The arrest of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal upon his arrival at Algiers airport on November 16 has sparked outrage across the literary world and beyond. At 75 years old, this committed intellectual, who became a French citizen in 2024, is known for his courageous stance against Islamism and totalitarianism. His detention by Algerian ...

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