Experiencing York Literature Festival

Attending the Event

On Saturday, March 14, I attended a talk at the York Literature Festival featuring author Colette Snowden, who discussed her urban noir novel Celeste. As I arrived at the venue, the atmosphere felt calm, but quietly anticipatory. Conversations were soft and relaxed, yet there was a clear sense that everyone was eager for the session to begin.

Before the talk started, the space felt focused and welcoming. The audience gradually settled into their seats, and there was a shared feeling of curiosity about what the discussion would bring.

‘Celeste’

I chose to attend this event because Celeste explores a topic that many people are often hesitant to talk about: the realities of being a woman alongside the effects of toxic masculinity. Snowden’s work also touches on how these gender roles intersect with broader social issues, including conversations surrounding the male loneliness epidemic. As someone interested in how literature reflects real social experiences, I was curious to hear how Snowden approached these themes in her writing.

One quote that stayed with me was when Snowden said, “We don’t live our lives in isolation. Our stories and experiences are all connected to one another.” This moment felt particularly powerful. The audience was clearly captivated by the discussion, listening attentively, and reacting warmly to the ideas Snowden shared.

What I Gained

Attending the event made me reflect on how interconnected our own lives really are. Listening to Snowden discuss the themes behind Celeste highlighted how individual experiences are often linked to wider social structures and relationships.

It reminded me that our interactions with others matter more than we sometimes realize. Stories—whether fictional or personal—can reveal perspectives that challenge us to think more carefully about the world around us. Leaving the session, I felt encouraged to approach conversations and relationships with greater awareness and empathy.

York Lit Festival as a YSJ Student

From a student perspective, the York Literature Festival adds something unique to university life. While lectures and seminars provide important academic foundations, events like this allow students to experience literature in a more personal and engaging way.

Hearing directly from authors offers insight into their creative processes and the ideas behind their work. It creates a space where literature becomes more than something we study—it becomes something we experience and discuss together. Events like this also help students feel more connected to the wider York community and to others who share similar interests.

My Final Thoughts

For future YSJ students, festivals like this highlight how university life extends beyond coursework. Attending events at the York Literature Festival can open up perspectives, introduce you to inspiring ideas, and create opportunities to meet people who share your curiosity about literature.

York itself is a city full of festivals, creativity, and conversation. Taking the time to explore events outside your course can broaden your horizons in unexpected ways. You never know which story, idea, or discussion might stay with you long after the event ends.