What does it mean to think, speak and write in different languages?
This question is addressed by Eva Eppler, Narjes Azimi and Lisa Schantl from three different perspectives. Eva Eppler will discuss multilingualism from a linguistic point of view, sketching different routes into multilingualism, as well as different motivations for becoming bi-/multilingual. Illustrating the choices multilinguals have, she will discuss questions of competence, as well as barriers to cross-linguistic and cross-cultural communication, but also how we can go beyond these limitations through linked consciousness and a shared humanity. Supporting the points illustrated, she will share examples of spoken and written language use from her research on Austrian Jewish refugees in London and Kurdish/Turkish/Greek multilingualism in Cyprus.
Narjes Azimi, writer and poet, will approach the topic from the point of view of a multilingual writer, reading passages from her texts.
Lisa Schantl, founder and editor-in-chief of Tint Journal shares insights into her work with bi- and multilingual writers for the journal, her mission and the strength of multilingualism in writing. Together, they will open a discourse on the multilingual society, and how creativity can thrive from speaking more than one language, and invite you to join the discourse in a discussion on the topics addressed by the speakers.
Join us on this talk, reading, and discussion on June 10, at 17:00 (CEST)
Please, sign up with dagmar.wallenstorfer(at)uni-graz.at