Erri De Luca, a prominent Italian novelist and poet, is set to participate in the International Writers Festival at Mishkenot Sha’ananim in Jerusalem from May 25 to 28, 2026. The festival, supported by the Jerusalem Foundation, will showcase award-winning writers from across the globe alongside leading Israeli authors, poets, journalists, and artists.
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De Luca will be part of a program titled “From Naples to Jerusalem,” where he will discuss contemporary Italy's literary and cultural landscape with Prof. Uri S. Cohen, including insights on his upcoming Hebrew publication. The festival highlights De Luca's connection to biblical Hebrew and Jewish literature, describing him as a significant novelist, poet, and social activist with a unique approach to translating the Bible.
In a statement regarding his attendance, De Luca expressed his awareness of the ongoing conflict in Israel, noting, “I felt the deep noise of a conflict in formation... I am coming to share this moment with the Israeli public – and to speak... about all the other matters.”
Julia Fermentto-Tzaisler, festival and artistic director, mentioned that assembling this year's list of guests proved challenging due to cancellations influenced by Israel's global status. Despite these difficulties, she commended writers who chose to engage with Israeli culture, emphasizing the festival's role in exploring the intersection of literature, Israel, and the Diaspora.
The festival will conclude with an event honoring former hostage Eli Sharabi, where he will discuss his memoir, Hostage, with journalist Roni Kuban. This year’s festival marks a significant moment, as Sharabi’s involvement symbolizes resilience in the face of adversity. President Isaac Herzog, Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Leon, and Jerusalem Foundation President Arik Grebelsky are scheduled to deliver opening remarks.
Fermentto-Tzaisler reflected on the festival's previous years, highlighting its resilience following the October 7 events. Grebelsky noted the festival’s role in reinforcing Jerusalem's cultural identity, framing culture as essential for connection during times of tension.
Other festival highlights include discussions with notable figures such as novelist Dara Horn, American thriller writer Joseph Finder, and sociologist Eva Illouz, who will address themes of Jewish identity, storytelling, and the impact of contemporary events.
Additionally, the festival will feature tributes, musical events, children’s activities, and an international photography exhibition from the Doron Sabag Collection. More details are available on the festival's webpage.