The Long Night of Literatures, an annual European literary festival held in India and organized by the EU National Institutes for Culture (EUNIC), returned this year with a multi-city programme. The 2025 edition takes place across three Indian cities: Kolkata (18 November), Delhi (21 November), and Varanasi (24 November), offering diverse audiences the chance to experience European contemporary literature. The hallmark of the event is its “literary speed-dating” format — a rotational setup that allows small groups of readers to interact directly with writers.

This year, Poland is represented by Piotr Florczyk, a poet, essayist, translator. Among his distinctions are the prestigious Harold Morton Landon Translation Award and the Found in Translation Award, which recognize his excellence in literary translation.

Florczyk currently serves as a professor of global literary studies at the University of Washington in Seattle.

A Vibrant Evening in Delhi

The Delhi chapter of the Long Night of Literatures took place on 21 November at the India Habitat Centre. The evening opened with an official inauguration at the Stein Auditorium, after which participating authors proceeded to their individual sessions with the audience.

Piotr Florczyk shared his session with Spanish writer Marcos Giralt. Florczyk read from his poetry and responded to questions about his writing process, artistic expression, and the themes that shape his work. He also addressed broader questions about Polish literature and translation, engaging the audience in a lively, thoughtful exchange.

Florczyk’s participation in Delhi followed his appearance in Kolkata on 18 November, where he also met with readers, publishers, and local writers. His journey will continue with a final session in Varanasi on 24 November.

Reflecting on his experience in Delhi, Florczyk expressed gratitude for the meaningful interactions and the warm reception he received:

“I’m grateful to have taken part in the amazing evening, where I had the opportunity to engage with local authors, publishers, and readers, many of whom asked interesting questions about my work and Polish literature in general. I would like to acknowledge the amazing care and support I have received from the staff of the Polish Institute.”

By bringing together authors and audiences from diverse backgrounds, the Long Night of Literatures continues to serve as an important cultural bridge between Europe and India. It reaffirms the power of literature to connect people, broaden perspectives.