“When you write, you take part in a global conversation,” says author Marilynne Robinson. Robinson joins Kaja Schjerven Mollerin to talk about literature and her newly written Fosse Lecture. Through her numerous acclaimed novels and essays, Robinson has explored themes such as grace, forgiveness, democracy, and community. Her works demonstrate a rare ability to recognize the innate worth of human beings—even in uneasy times.
The Fosse Lecture explores literature as an art form, presenting perspectives to inspire and engage the international literary community today. Alongside it, the Fosse Prize for Translators celebrates those who bring Norwegian literature to readers around the world. These initiatives aim to build a lasting cultural tradition and an intellectual meeting point in Norway and beyond.
The event will be held in English.
Marilynne Robinson (b. 1943) is an American author and essayist, best known for the award-winning Gilead quartet. She holds a PhD in English literature and has taught creative writing at the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Robinson has been translated into 36 languages and is regarded as one of the foremost literary thinkers of our time, with essays and novels revolving around faith, grace, and human dignity. She has received numerous major literary awards, including the Pulitzer Prize, and is frequently mentioned as a candidate for the Nobel Prize in Literature.
Kaja Schjerven Mollerin is one of Norway’s most distinguished literary critics and essayists. She holds a PhD in literary studies from the University of Oslo and works as a researcher at the National Library of Norway. She writes for the newspaper Klassekampen and has published several books, including works on authors such as Gunvor Hofmo, Jens Bjørneboe, Susan Sontag, and Vigdis Hjorth.
When and where?
Friday, 24 April 2026, 18:00–19:00
The National Library of Norway, Målstova
Entrance from Henrik Ibsens gate 110
Directions: Visit the National Library of Norway!
Tickets
The event is free, but you must book a ticket to secure a seat either in the main venue, Målstova, or another room in the same building, where the event will be shown on a large screen.
Book your ticket here!
Please note: Seats in the main venue will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Doors will open 30 minutes before the event begins.
Streaming
We will live stream the event HERE, and the recording will be available for 14 days HERE.
Food and drink
Credo offers food and beverages rooted in Norwegian culinary traditions. Nasjonalbibliotekbaren, Kantina and Bakeriet offer beverages, light snacks, and baked goods.
Welcome!