Institut Ramon LLull

Interview with the director of the Paris Book Fair, Bertrand Morriset

Literature.  Paris, 16/04/2013

A few days after Barcelona's participation as Guest City at the Paris Book Fair, we interview the Fair's director, Bertrand Morriset, to evaluate the city's presence.




ow do you rate Barcelona's presence at the Salon du livre?

It was a great success, both in terms of the media and the public, which has got to know literature from Barcelona. In particular, I would like to thank the Institut Ramon Llull and its team, who have dealt with this challenge brilliantly. The quality of the authors and debates has been outstanding. Everybody has remarked on their conviviality and the magnificent design of the stand, including the highest authorities in France. The number of books sold and the long queues of people for book signings have been impressive. It should be mentioned that many professional meetings were held that should lead to increased business dealings between French and Catalan publishers.

• What will its impact be on the future of Catalan publishing?

I think that ... nothing will be the same again! Our publishing sectors are similar and have a long tradition of collaboration. The presence of Barcelona, ​​Guest City at the 2013 Paris Book Fair, strengthens translation in both directions and increases the volume of business between the sectors in each city.

• Can we say that Barcelona has become a literary capital in Europe?

Now I'm sorry to say you have upset me, as I thought that was Paris! But knowing your city better and having had the pleasure of visiting several times, and at the same time being an inveterate Parisian, I must make a confession: I think we are at the same level!

• What contemporary or classic authors do you recommend to friends and acquaintances?

I do not like this type of exercise because I cannot get into disputes with anybody. But Auguste Escoffier, the great cook nineteenth century, inspires me every day in my culinary passion, while Georges Perec is my teacher.

"The presence of Barcelona, ​​Guest City at the 2013 Paris Book Fair, strengthens translation in both directions and increases the volume of business between the sectors in each city".

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