Why so many East German writers have faded from the collective memory. Reading with Carsten Gansel, followed by a discussion.
When the GDR collapsed, the entire body of East German literature was dismantled almost overnight. Millions of books were destroyed, publishing houses and companies were sold off, and libraries were closed. The evaluation of literary works was based not on aesthetic criteria, but on ideological ones. Authors were broadly categorized as “pro-state” or “anti-state” and banished from the collective memory. This had traumatic consequences, not only for those who were defamed.
Carsten Gansel shows how the experiences of the post-reunification period have contributed to many people in the East still feeling a sense of being controlled by external forces to this day. This also includes the fact that their literature has fallen so completely out of the spotlight. Gansel advocates for an unbiased view of GDR literature with its own distinct themes and for a nuanced reassessment of its authors in the public eye.
Carsten Gansel teaches at Justus Liebig University in Giessen. His most recent publications include his biography of Brigitte Reimann, *Ich bin so gierig nach Leben* (*I Am So Hungry for Life*), and the new edition of Theodor Plievier’s novel *Stalingrad*. He has been a guest at the Feldberg Lake District on several occasions in recent years to give readings.
On September 25, 2026, Carsten Gansel will be our guest to present his book on the disappearance of GDR literature. He will read excerpts from his book and answer questions in a conversation with former editor Annelie Kaduk. Perhaps this will shift perspectives on the literature of the former GDR a little and inspire some to reach into that box of books they’ve set aside and pick one up to read again.
The Feldberger Land Cultural Association cordially invites you to attend.
