Montreal Literary Tour

When Mordecai Richler died, there was a tremendous and perhaps unexpected outpouring of affection for him given his ambivalent relationship with Montreal's Jewish community, English Canadian nationalists and Canadian separatists, and his reputation as a contrarian provocateur. And yet Richler is memorialized as one of the most respected literary figures in Canada and one of the first internationally renowned Canadian writers. His breakthrough novel, The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz, explores the rise of an ambitious young Jewish man determined to be successful in the 1930s and 40s.   The Montreal Jewish community produced a great number of writers in the mid-20th century. In addition to Richler, the writings of Leonard Cohen, poet, novelist and singer-songwriter, and poets, Irvin Layton and A. M. Klein are steeped in Jewish themes. Their unique and personal literary expressions of Jewish identity often leave the observer considering where fiction ends and autobiography begins.    Discussion Leader(s): Discussion Leaders Historian and retired professor Stan Asher has been leading groups around the Old Jewish area of Montreal as a labour of love for many years. He carries with him a well-read copy of The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz, by the late Mordecai Richler and reads out loud excerpts that evoke the places we visit. The works we will discuss include Mordecai Richler, The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitzand selected poetry of Leonard Cohen, Irving Layton and A.M. Klein. Advertisement: Location: Montreal , Quebec Date(s): September 14-19, 2008 Fees: $2,450 $300 Ã?¢?? single supplement Fees include readings accommodation discussions guided walks informal talks three meals each day excursions admissions Advertisement: