Elif Shafak named new president of the Royal Society of Literature

"I was very touched and humbled when they collectively elected me as the new president, Shafak told the Guardian. For me, the word fellowship' does not only mean joining an organisation of such exceptional value and history. I also want to focus on the second meaning of the word. Fellowship, as in companionship, solidarity, togetherness. I find this very important because we live in an increasingly turbulent and harsh world where many in the arts feel very lonely."

"Evaristo, whose term ended at the AGM, said Shafak is a terrifically inspired choice for president, her appointment marking an exciting moment for the society. A global bestseller with a renowned reputation as a writer, intellectual and public speaker, she is a longstanding advocate for literature and the power of storytelling to bridge differences and illuminate multiple perspectives. Shafak has been a vice-president of the RSL since 2020. She is the author of 21 books, including 13 novels; her works have been translated into 58 languages."

Elif Shafak, a British-Turkish novelist, was elected president of the Royal Society of Literature following a vote among fellows at the society's AGM. Shafak emphasized fellowship as companionship, solidarity and togetherness, citing concerns about loneliness and challenges facing those in the arts. She expressed a desire to listen to fellow writers and poets and gather their thoughts and suggestions before setting detailed plans. Bernardine Evaristo praised the appointment as inspired and exciting. Shafak has served as a vice-president of the RSL since 2020 and has a substantial international publishing record and academic credentials.

Read at www.theguardian.com