What are Elif Shafak's goals as RSL president?

Shafak aims to emphasize fellowship, solidarity, and togetherness among writers, particularly in response to challenges faced by those in the arts.

What is Elif Shafak known for?

Elif Shafak is an internationally acclaimed novelist whose works have been translated into 58 languages, known for novels like 'The Island of Missing Trees'.

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Novelist Shafak Becomes RSL President

Q: Who is the new president of the Royal Society of Literature?

Elif Shafak, a British-Turkish novelist, has been elected as the new president of the Royal Society of Literature.

8 Dec

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Summary

Elif Shafak elected new president of Royal Society of Literature.
Shafak emphasizes fellowship, solidarity, and togetherness in arts.
Shafak is an internationally acclaimed author translated into 58 languages.

British-Turkish novelist Elif Shafak has been elected as the new president of the Royal Society of Literature. The announcement came following a vote among the society's fellows, marking a significant transition from outgoing president Bernardine Evaristo.

Shafak, author of numerous acclaimed novels, expressed deep gratitude and humility upon her election. She highlighted her intention to focus on the core meaning of 'fellowship'—companionship, solidarity, and togetherness—especially in a world where artists can feel isolated. She plans to listen to the suggestions of fellow writers and poets.

Bernardine Evaristo described Shafak's appointment as a "terrifically inspired choice," noting her global success and advocacy for storytelling. Shafak, who holds a PhD in political science, has a prolific writing career, with her works translated into 58 languages, including Booker Prize-shortlisted "10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World."