Janina Katz – an acclaimed novelist and poet – is associated with Scandinavian literature, though her works most often explore the dramas of the Polish-Jewish experience. The book “Życie należy się literaturze” (“Life Belongs to Literature”) reminds us that her multifaceted writing career—initially as a literary critic, scholar, and essayist—has always been part of the Polish culture she helped shape for decades. This work spans the period before her emigration in 1969 and the years that followed, when she established herself as a spirited reviewer and commentator.
“Życie należy się literaturze” offers a fascinating selection of her diverse writings. Clarity of argument, humor, surprising ironic twists, and a conviction that literature allows us to glimpse the workings of the “hand of fate” are the hallmarks of her interpretations. The list of figures discussed is impressive: Grynberg, Filipowicz, Grotowski, Kornhauser, Krynicki, Mrożek, Szymborska, Toporska, and Zagajewski. Alongside them appear acquaintances and friends – from Kraków and Copenhagen – whom she observes with a blend of compassion and amusement. In her later essays, she turns her gaze upon herself as well—without sparing herself. “Życie należy się literaturze” demonstrates that the Kraków school of criticism found a brilliant representative in Copenhagen.
Bogusława Sochańska and Łukasz Tischner will discuss Janina Katz’s book “Życie należy się literaturze. Szkice i eseje” (“Life Belongs to Literature: Sketches and Essays”). The meeting will be moderated by Dorota Siwor.
Janina Katz, “Życie należy się literaturze. Szkice i eseje”; selection: Magdalena Machała; foreword and editorial preparation: Łukasz Tischner; Driada Publishing House, Luboń 2026.
This event is part of the programme of accompanying events of the Conrad Festival.
The event is organized by: Krakow UNESCO City of Literature, Galicia Jewish Museum, Driada Publishing House.
In Polish. Free admission.
