Panoptica: Gabriel Krauze

British author Gabriel Krauze discusses crime, morality, and the enduring power of 'art' as part of Panoptica, Brisbane Powerhouse’s newest talk series, on August 23, 2023.

Growing up in the blocks of South Kilburn in London, Gabriel was drawn to a life of crime and gangs at a young age. Now in his 30s, he has left that world behind and is recapturing his life through writing.

His debut novel, Who They Was, received critical acclaim for its raw and unflinching portrayal of gang life and violence in London. Longlisted for the 2020 Booker Prize, its publication in September 2020 caused ripples. 

The writer's stark portrayal of London’s dark underbelly sparked debates and discussions among critics about the glorification of violence and criminality.

“People in the literary world, like in the art world, think they want authenticity.” said Gabriel. “But when they get it, they discover that they don’t really want authenticity. Authenticity means truth. That’s what I’m trying to write. The truth.”

Don't miss this fascinating conversation with Gabriel Krauze as part of Panoptica, a new talk series that explores the full spectrum of the human experience in all its splendour, complexity and contradiction.

Purchase a Panoptica Festival Pass to all four shows for $69 plus transaction fees.

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