In opening remarks, this event is described as showcasing "literature from and about a land that is being terribly tortured." The Freedom to Write Committee co-organized the event. Richard Bernstein acts as moderator. Anna Allott, the author of PEN's new report on censorship existing in Burma at the time of this event, "Inked Over, Ripped Out: Burmese Storytellers and the Censors," discusses her findings. Aris reads a statement from his mother, Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been under detention for four years. A short story, by San San Nweh, called "The Children Who Play in the Back Alleyways", is read by Marianne Wiggins. U Win Pe's story "The Day the Weather Broke" is read by Jeffrey Eugenides. Wendy Law-Yone reads from her book "The Coffin Tree." Norman Rush reads an excerpt from Nyi Pu Lay's "The Python."  Rose Styron reads Moe's poems, including "Picking Crickets" and "Open the Door."  Karen Swenson reads her poems "Cold Blood", "The Garden Again," and "Hatching." Nu Nu Yi's story "He's Not My Father" is presented.

The Silenced Voices of Burma, 9/23/1993

Amiri Baraka reads “Rhythm Travel” at the 2008 Beyond Margins Celebration.


Amiri Baraka Reads “Rhythm Travel”

The celebrated poet reads the seminal letter of political protest, in which she became the first and only person to date to refuse the highest honor bestowed upon an artist on behalf of the people. Background and discussion: http://www.brainpickings.org/index.php/2013/05/16/adrienne-rich-national-medal-of-arts-letter/

Adrienne Rich declines the National Medal of Arts, 1997

PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect open expression in the United States and worldwide. We champion the freedom to write, recognizing the power of the word to transform the world.  Our mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible.


The Silenced Voices of Burma, 9/23/1993

PEN America

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