News & Opinion

The author on his mother’s storytelling, cheering up with Oscar Wilde and why he always finishes books

Wales Bonner asked Okri to write a series of texts for the gallery’s walls, and she was very relieved when he said yes: “It’s given me a real confidence, that such important people have trusted me.” Okri’s consent might have surprised her, but it probably didn’t come as a shock to those around her. She’s remarkably focused and determined.

‘Ben Okri’s most significant novel since his Man Booker Prize-winning masterpiece The Famished Road, The Freedom Artist weaves together ancient myth and modern politics for an impassioned story primed for the post-truth age. A story of love and loss, fiercely told and impossible to ignore’ Waterstones, ‘The Best Books to Look Out For in 2019’.

Joining Graham this week is the record producer Trevor Horn chatting about his new 80s inspired retro album, poet and author Ben Okri discussing his new novel The Freedom Artist, and chef James Martin on his new TV series and book. Plus there’s Grill Graham with Maria McErlane. BBC Website

In a conversation with Firstpost at the Zee Jaipur Literature Festival 2019, Man Booker Prize-winning novelist and poet Ben Okri spoke about his latest novel The Freedom Artist; the need to fight for justice in society, and the collaborative relationships within the writing community.

Stars from theatre and television world, critics and theatre lovers gathered on Sun 3 February in the beautiful newly-renovated Grand Hall at Battersea Arts Centre to celebrate the 9th Off West End Theatre Awards, the Offies. With OFFIES director Geoffrey Brown presiding over the ceremony, the awards were presented by theatre luminaries including critic Lyn…

Which came first, the image or the word? It’s hard to tell in The Magic Lamp, Ben Okri’s collaboration with painter Rosemary Clunie. Subtitled Dreams of Our Age, it’s a collection of twenty-five enchanting, haunting stories, each accompanied by a dreamlike painting.

‘Grenfell Tower, June, 2017’ is a poem written by Nigerian writer Ben Okri. To raise funds for relatives of victims of the Grenfel Tower fire, and for survivors.

After 8 years of work N – The Madness of Reason, will have its world premiere at the 64e International Film festival of Berlin (6-16 February). N is the story of an unusual obsession. A French encyclopaedist tries to complete his life’s work from beyond death. Hovering between dream and reality, this magical film plays…