Vancouver’s Writers Fest returns Monday with a renewed focus on Canadian authors

“A scintillating line-up of exceptional books, ideas, and dialogue” is how organizers describe the 38th annual Vancouver Writers Fest, which begins on Monday. They also admit there will be a bit of an “elbows up” theme this time around.

“This year our event is more than ever really about great Canadian authors, about tackling some of the big issues that Canadians are thinking about right now, especially since the beginning of the year,” said artistic director Leslie Hurtig.

“We’re looking at everything from conversations around sovereignty to where we are now with the truth and reconciliation process, but also just some really great Canadian writers, really great reads for those who kind of want to move away from the news and immerse themselves in some fantastic other worlds.”

Hurtig says the Canadiana theme even extends to ‘Ahead by a Century,’ the festival’s popular lyrics night.

“What we do is we just have a bit of fun with our authors. Participating authors in the festival come on stage and read a famous Canadian song as serious poetry,” she said. “And it takes the audience a little while to figure out, ‘What is that song? I recognize that.’ But when it’s read as serious poetry, it takes on a whole other meaning. And it’s quite a hilarious evening.”

The ‘Ahead by a Century’ lyrics night happens next Friday at Performance Works on Granville Island. 

There are 87 events in all. You can visit writersfest.bc.ca to find out more.