Dirk Ippen Lecture

On Becoming a Writer: An Evening with Colson Whitehead

From the zombie apocalypse to the Harlem underworld, Colson Whitehead doesn’t just write stories—he builds entire worlds. Join us for a rare, wide-ranging conversation with the two-time Pulitzer Prize winner. We’re diving into the mechanics of his genius, the grit of his creative process, and a first look at his highly anticipated 2026 release, Cool Machine. How does a writer reinvent American literature every few years? And where exactly does the line between history and imagination begin to blur? Don’t miss this chance to step inside the mind of a modern master.

Moderated by Wieland Freund, Author, Translator, Literary Critic, and Editor, Feuilleton Section, Die Welt

In cooperation with Kultur Büro Elisabeth.