The second reading day commenced with a noteworthy announcement from Justiciar Andreas Sourij regarding author Slata Roschal. Allegations concerning her submission suggested that excerpts from her Bachmann text might have been published online prematurely, which could lead to her disqualification. However, due to insufficient evidence to substantiate the claims, it was determined that she would remain in the competition—”in dubio pro reo”.
The Jury Praises Schätte’s Text
German author Lena Schätte kicked off the readings, invited by Thomas Strässle. She presented her piece titled “Was wir tragen,” which revolves around two overweight girls forming a bond over their shared struggles. The jury’s discussion, led by Mara Delius, acknowledged its conventional aspects but appreciated the story’s subtle yet extreme brutality. Delius noted how the narrator expresses this aggression, particularly towards her mother, whom she blames for her weight.
Acclamations for the “Brutal” Text
Mithu Sanyal remarked that the text possesses incredible narrative economy, hooking readers from the outset and maintaining a heightened tension throughout. She identified a brutal undertone that resonates deeply. Laura de Weck commented on the impactful opening line: “We come together because we are the heaviest girls in school.” This establishes a radical context, highlighted by the narrator’s extreme actions, such as discarding her mother’s jewelry—a moment that opens a doorway to internal hell. Still, the narrator finds a way to cope with this turmoil, symbolizing a protective bond between the girls.
Thomas Strässle perceived an “existential impact” conveyed without accusatory tones or melodrama. Brigitte Schwens-Harrant commented on the solid construction that made the text feel coherent and credible, highlighting the effective use of “We” to form an exclusionary community.
Praise for “Father Without Son”
Next, Ozan Zakariya Keskinkilic read his text “Vater ohne Sohn,” invited by Mara Delius. Klaus Kastberger lauded the narrative power and expressed gratitude for the submission. Sanyal noted that the father in the text is portrayed as non-malevolent, and the title subtly underpins the entire narrative. De Weck praised Keskinkilic’s adherence to his linguistic style, pointing out that his multifaceted imagery breeds poetry and offering her own delight in his work. Tingler, however, expressed skepticism, describing it as “Neuköllner Biedermeier” and deeming the existential worldview somewhat trivial.
Seraina Kobler’s Reflective Journey
The final reading of the day featured Swiss author Seraina Kobler, reading her piece “RIFUGIO.” Delius initiated the discussion, praising the impactful opening line: “The road to paradise is a dead end.” Kobler’s use of the term “Schlaflöcher” to describe a specific dimension of overexerted motherhood was met with Delius’s admiration. The jury expressed surprise that a text characterized by a metaphysical associative style—free from irony—might have been suggested by Tingler.
Thomas Strässle expressed surprise that Max Frisch’s name hadn’t emerged yet, with Kastberger cheerfully noting that in Switzerland, literature still holds a significant cultural connection. Delius remarked on a text that initially eluded her understanding, a sentiment echoed by Sanyal.
Magdalena Schrefel’s Personal Narrative
Another noteworthy event was marked by Magdalena Schrefel, born in 1984, who represents Austria by reading her piece titled “KIRSCHEN, HERZ MIT VERBAND,” which delves into the narrator’s struggle to disclose her breast cancer diagnosis to family and friends.
A Warm Reception for the Second Day
The day unfolded positively, with a blend of notable readings and lively discussions. As the competition continues to unfold, the audience struggled with fluctuating temperatures, given the enticing options of the cool ORF theater or the shaded, comfortable Bachmann Park, complete with lounge chairs and refreshing fans.
As the second reading day concluded, anticipation builds for the final selection of winners on Sunday, showcasing the rich diversity of literary voices and the vibrant discussions that continue to resonate among readers and jurors alike.
What’s Next?
For Saturday’s readings, the program will feature authors Derya Uzun, Christoph Szalay, Wolfgang Popp, and Gesche Heumann, promising yet another captivating lineup at the renowned event!
