We’ve been attending quite a few events at the Edinburgh International Book Festival in the past couple of weeks, and it has been one of the best in years. Debates over the digital revolution of publishing and book formats such as the eBook and ‘Enhanced eBook’ were dominant in various events; I tend to think that, like in the music business, equilibrium will be found and the industry will survive. Opinions are incredibly diverse on this subject, which is fantastic!
Other highlights for me personally; Andrea Levy reading in a strong Caribbean accent with real authenticity, even though her natural voice is that of North London. Alasdair Gray was also thoroughly enjoyable; I’ve admired the creativity and verve of his writing for many years. His enduring individuality and talents as author, artist and thinker leave me in awe. If you’re not familiar with his works, pick up Lanark: A Life in Four Books and prepare for a challenge. It’s a book that takes you on a journey that is definitively unique and confusing all at once.
The festival was great, though with its significant commercial success comes the usual downside, it is becoming increasingly commercialised. I’ve no problem with that, and hope it continues to grow as it is a special festival. While it thrives, perhaps a new ‘fringe’ book festival should start, focussing on free or very cheap events for lesser known, or even unknown, writers and publications. Just as the Edinburgh comedy fringe started as a reaction to commercialised events many years ago, maybe it’s time for a Book equivalent. Not to mention that the precedent has already been set at Hay-on-Wye, where an alternative book festival was setup within the town to counter the intensively commercial setup on the outskirts. Time to try this in Edinburgh?
I think so anyway…
Warmest regards,
Thomas
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