Full Frame: Town of Letters

In this episode, Full Frame explores the power of storytelling from Cartagena, Colombia. A city where writers, poets, and thinkers reflect on language, memory, and identity in a place shaped by words.

This year marks the 20th edition of the Hay Festival in Cartagena, a renowned gathering that brings together writers, poets, and journalists from around the world to celebrate the transformative power of words.

 Translations bring out human experiences

“I grew up reading all kinds of literature written by people not like me. In fact, I barely ever read anything by people like me – and that includes people writing in English,” said novelist Viet Thanh Nguyen during our exclusive interview.

Nguyen, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer for his novel, “The Sympathizer” who’s also a scholar, dismantles dominant narratives of war, memory, and identity. His sharp, unflinching storytelling turns literature into a battleground for narrative.

Education and Literature as A Beacon of Hope

Literature is the soul of education which ignites creativity, imagination, and critical thinking. It hones our interpretive skills, helping us embrace diverse perspectives and uncover deeper truths. Inspired by this spirit, Colombian superstar Shakira founded “Pies Descalzos” or “Bare Feet”, a foundation that champions education as a bridge to dreams and a tool for crafting life’s stories.

The Poetry of Birds

Javier Cajiao, a Colombian biologist, educator, and birdwatching expert, is celebrated for his engaging approach to making science accessible to all.

“We have a lot of ecosystems that allow about 20% of the birds of the world,” said Cajiao during our conversation.

His book “Secret Guide to Birds” blends years of research in the Amazon with imaginative storytelling, inviting readers of all ages to discover the magic of nature.