Maryam Aras in Cologne: Rediscovering John Dos Passos' USA Trilogy
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Literary History During Lunch: Maryam Aras on John Dos Passos
On November 4, 2026, the Lunch Lectures series invites you to the Interim of Cologne's Central Library. Literary critic and author Maryam Aras will focus on John Dos Passos and his USA Trilogy – a narrative panorama that links American society, political violence, and individual life stories in a remarkably modern form that remains relevant today.
Montage as Literary Seismography
John Dos Passos developed a montage-like writing style in the USA Trilogy, which was published between 1930 and 1936. Newspaper clippings, biographies, reportage elements, and changing perspectives merge into a multifaceted picture of society. Maryam Aras demonstrates how this narrative technique makes historical violence visible and brings a large cast of characters to life.
An Author Encounter with Literary Depth
Maryam Aras combines literary analysis with cultural-historical context. She studied Islamic studies, American studies, and political science, curates and moderates literary events, and works as a literary mediator for Persian poetry and prose. Her academic focus is on postcoloniality and reception patterns in the German-language feuilleton.
Between Classic and Present
The Lunch Lecture makes it tangible why a nearly hundred-year-old novel cycle still resonates within cultural discourse. Dos Passos' linguistic artistry, rapid shifts in perspective, and film-like montage create a reading atmosphere where literary history appears as a vibrant present. Aras' critical perspective opens new access points to a central work of American modernism.
Literature & Snack at Lunchtime
The format combines a brief, personal engagement with influential literature and an open atmosphere. The event begins promptly at 1:15 PM and lasts about 45 minutes. Sandwiches, chairs, and scattered fruit are part of the Lunch Lectures concept – an uncomplicated setting for a focused literary experience.
The series is organized by the Literary Writing program at the Academy of Media Arts Cologne and the City Library of Cologne, and is funded by the Victor Rolff Foundation and the Rectorate of the Academy of Media Arts Cologne.
Conclusion: Experience Literature Live and Present
This Lunch Lecture offers a precise, sensuous, and knowledgeable approach to John Dos Passos' USA Trilogy. Those interested in modern narrative forms, political literature, and the relevance of literary classics will experience an inspiring author encounter with Maryam Aras in Cologne. Admission is free, and registration is not required.
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