The European Union Book Club Ottawa meets the Latvian writer Nora Ikstena

21.01.2022. 17:36

On 19 January the Embassy of Latvia in Canada organized the European Union Book Club Ottawa online meeting with the Latvian writer Nora Ikstena, to discuss her novel “Soviet Milk” (“Mātes piens”).

Ambassador of Latvia Kārlis Eihenbaums welcomed all attendees and in his address emphasized the significance of the Latvian literature and culture in general, when introducing to Latvia and Latvians. The works of high value like novel “Soviet Milk” aid to explain the history of Latvia and the Latvian nation. It has become one of the Embassy’s top priorities in the recent years, to assist in understanding the true history of Latvia, through the public diplomacy events like exhibitions, film screenings, literary and other events. Ambassador Eihenbaums reminded of the Latvian book donations, in particular, the National Library of Latvia gift of books to the Library and Archives Canada, Ottawa and Toronto public libraries in 2021. With the Embassy’s assistance, the latest Latvian fiction, including poetry and children’s literature, publications on the Latvian art and history are available in Canada in Latvian, English and French.

The virtual meeting was well attended from across Canada, also Latvia and Australia. In the conversation with writer Nora Ikstena, the participants discussed the creation of the novel “Soviet Milk”, its importance and role in the Latvian literary world and its impact on the society. The participants shared the stories of the book’s influence on them and stories of their family history and experiences.

The Embassy of Latvia expresses its gratitude to Nora Ikstena for her participation in the event.