As Wales knows well, borders and barriers come in all shapes and sizes. Some of them are physical, can be seen and plotted on a map. Even then, they are far from straightforward, forged as they are by histories that can seem at odds with local culture, language or preference.
That’s why borders are metaphorical too, places of contested identity and sometimes tension – but just as often, too, places of coming together, of mutual support, strength and celebration.
So, what better way to open this year’s Monty Lit Fest than with National Poet of Wales, the Welsh-Iraqi poet, filmmaker and artist Hanan Issa, who will share the stage with Monty Lit Fest favourites Mike Parker and Sioned Wiliam. They’ll be taking us on a tour of borders, both on the map and in our heads and hearts, featuring Hanan’s poetry collection My Body Can House Two Hearts, Mike’s book All the Wide Border, and more besides.
It’s the perfect opportunity to ponder those borderlands in all their joys and complexities. The session will take place in Montgomery Town Hall on Friday 6th June at 7.00pm.
This seeming paradox at the heart of the idea of borders and barriers sits at the core of another book we’ll be hearing about that Friday evening. For this year’s Late Lounge, we’re delighted to welcome author, broadcaster and journalist Jon Savage who’ll be talking to our regular Late Lounge host, Welsh music legend Rhys Mwyn.
Jon’s latest book, The Secret Public looks at key moments in music and entertainment history between 1955 and 1979 which helped move gay culture from the margins to the mainstream and, along the way, changed the face of pop forever. Just think Little Richard in the 1950s, David Bowie and glam rock or Sylvester’s You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real) and it’s clear that those borderlands were – once again – rich seams of creativity and expression.
Don’t miss this chance to meet one of the UK’s top music writers at 8.00pm on Friday 6th June – or why not make an evening of it at both sessions, enjoying a drink or two at the Montgomery Town Hall bar.
Tickets are available online, or in person at The Montgomery Bookshop or Ivy House Café in Montgomery.
We look forward to seeing you there.