Literature Award
The writer Oswald Egger receives the Georg Büchner Prize
The poet Oswald Egger does not see the prize of the German Academy for Language and Poetry as the end of his work, but rather as a stimulus.
The South Tyrolean writer Oswald Egger was awarded the Georg Büchner Prize 2024. “It is everything you want it to be,” Egger said before the awards ceremony in the State Theater. “I work very hard and I don’t see this as the end of what I do, but rather as motivation.”
“With Oswald Egger the German Academy for Language and Poetry pays homage to a writer who has transcended and expanded the boundaries of literary production since his first publication in 1993,” said the jury when announcing the winner of the prize. The author, already winner of numerous awards, was born in Merano in Alto Adige, studied literature and philosophy in Vienna and currently lives in North Rhine-Westphalia.
“Oswald Egger deserves the Büchner Prize because he radicalizes a certain idea of literature again,” said literary critic Paul Jandl in his eulogy speech. You know Egger when you see how many selves he comes up with, with none of them even remotely being themselves. “What distinguishes the Büchner Prize winner’s work from much literature: it doesn’t tell the story from beginning to end.”
Since 1951 the Academy has awarded the prize to writers who write in German. Prize winners must “distinguish themselves in a particular way through their works and creations” and “play a significant role in shaping contemporary German cultural life,” according to the statute. The prize is financed by the federal government, the state of Hesse and the city of Darmstadt.
Previous winners include Max Frisch (1958), Günter Grass (1965) and Heinrich Böll (1967), as well as more recently Terézia Mora, Lukas Bärfuss, Elke Erb, Clemens J. Setz and Lutz Seiler. It is named after the playwright and revolutionary Georg Büchner (“Woyzeck”). He was born in the Grand Duchy of Hesse in 1813 and died in Zurich in 1837.
In addition to the Georg Büchner Prize, two other prizes were awarded in Darmstadt: The cleric Karl-Heinz Kohl received the Sigmund Freud Prize for Scientific Prose 2024, worth 20,000 euros. The essayist and critic Marie Luise Knott received the same Johann Heinrich Merck Prize for literary criticism and non-fiction.
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Time.news Interview with Literary Expert Dr. Anna Weigel on Oswald Egger and the Georg Büchner Prize
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to our interview, Dr. Weigel. Today’s focus is on the remarkable writer Oswald Egger, who recently received the Georg Büchner Prize. What was your initial reaction to his win?
Dr. Anna Weigel (AW): Thank you for having me. I was thrilled when I heard the news! Egger is a fascinating figure in contemporary literature, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of his contributions.
TNE: The prize is viewed by Egger as a motivational factor rather than an endpoint in his career. How does this reflect on his creative philosophy?
AW: Absolutely. Egger’s perspective showcases his dedication to continual growth as a writer. He views accolades not just as achievements, but as stimuli that fuel his artistic journey. It speaks volumes about his commitment to pushing the boundaries of literary forms.
TNE: The jury highlighted how Egger has transcended traditional literary boundaries since his first publication in 1993. Can you elaborate on what that means in a practical sense?
AW: Certainly. Egger’s work often blurs the lines between genres and challenges conventional narrative structures. He has a unique ability to intertwine philosophical concepts with poetic expressions, inviting readers to engage more deeply with the text. This radical approach stimulates thought and discussion about what literature can be.
TNE: In his acceptance speech, Egger mentioned, “It is everything you want it to be.” How do you interpret this statement?
AW: It suggests a kind of openness and versatility in his work. Egger seems to understand that literature can be personal and subjective. It can evoke different meanings and feelings based on the reader’s experiences. This adaptability makes his work accessible yet profoundly layered.
TNE: Literary critic Paul Jandl spoke about Egger radicalizing a certain idea of literature. In what ways do you see Egger’s literature pushing literary conventions?
AW: Egger challenges the status quo by incorporating elements from various disciplines — be it philosophy, linguistics, or even visual arts. For example, he often employs a fragmented narrative style that reflects the complexities of contemporary life. This radicalization forces readers to reconsider what we define as literature and its role in society.
TNE: With Egger originally hailing from South Tyrol and now living in North Rhine-Westphalia, do you think his diverse background influences his writing?
AW: Definitely. His multicultural background enriches his perspectives and themes. Living in different places allows him to draw upon varied traditions, histories, and languages, which he masterfully weaves into his narratives. This blend creates a unique voice that resonates widely with audiences.
TNE: As a poet and author who has won numerous awards, including the Büchner Prize, what do you think is next for Oswald Egger?
AW: I expect he will continue to explore new territories in his writing. With this latest accolade, there’s an opportunity for further experimentation. We might see him delve even deeper into the philosophical dimensions of his work, perhaps collaborating with other artists or touching upon current societal issues.
TNE: Exciting prospects indeed! Thank you for sharing your insights, Dr. Weigel. Any final thoughts on Egger’s impact on modern literature?
AW: Oswald Egger is more than just a poet; he is a visionary. His influence can inspire not only writers but also readers to embrace literature as a living, evolving form of expression. I’m excited to see how his legacy will unfold in the years to come!
TNE: Thank you again, Dr. Weigel. It’s been a pleasure discussing Oswald Egger’s work and achievements with you!
