Literary evening by the shores at Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle

In literature one can find solace, augmenting absolute escapism into a world of wide imagination. To all literature enthusiasts, Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle in collaboration with Alliance Française, Colombo will be hosting popular French author and screenwriter David Foenkinos and local favourite Ashok Ferrey for a literary evening on 15 July.

In light of the French Spring Festival celebrating the arts from both France and Sri Lanka, the literary evening will begin with a free screening of ‘Memories’, based on David Foenkinos’s bestselling novel ‘La délicatesse’ followed by a reading with both David and Ashok Ferrey in the calming enclosures of the Cinnamon Room at Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle. Priced at Rs. 3,000, the evening will end with cocktails encouraging literary enthusiasts to get up-close and personal with the popular authors. 

David Foenkinos began writing as a guitar teacher whilst studying literature at the Sorbonne University in Paris. His first novel, ‘Inversion of Idiocy’ earned him critical success winning him the François Mauriac Prize that rewards a young writer. A turning point in his career was achieved with ‘The Delicacy’, celebrated by critics receiving a dozen literary prizes selling over a million copies. David Foenkinos adapted the novel to film, and co-directed it with his brother Stephen in 2011. ‘Memories’ his most autobiographical work was also adapted to film by actor and director Jean-Pierre Rouve. It turned out to be a mainstream success exceeding the million entry tickets sold in France. 

Bringing Sri Lanka to the forefront in literature, Ashok Ferrey through many of his works gained prominence both locally and internationally. A popular writer and illustrator, his two books, ‘Colpetty People’ and ‘The Good Little Ceylonese Girl’ were shortlisted for the Gratiaen Prize, Sri Lanka’s premier literary award. Colpetty People is currently the biggest selling book of adult English fiction ever published in Sri Lanka by a local author. His third book, ‘Serendipity’ was shortlisted for the State Literary Prize. Ashok is a guest lecturer at the Sri Lanka Institute of Architecture and the host of his own TV show, The Ashok Ferrey Show, an arts program on national television. 

Bringing the gurus in literature from France and Sri Lanka to a perfect setting is Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle well-known for its historic flare exposing its guests to the rich colonial past that Galle accounts for. Designed by the famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, the property is home to an array of amenities to cater to every traveller need ranging from signature dining experiences to a relaxation therapy at the pool overlooking the beach or even unwind at the hotel veranda having a splendid view of the breathtaking sunset.  

To experience the literary evening amidst the comforts at Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle please call Nadhun on 077 3 421 720 for reservations or email [email protected].