Join us for an interactive exploration of decolonial literature, focused on the complex, heavy, and shifting nature of silence.
In this session, we will open up a conversation on how silence materializes in oppressive systems—not just as a lack of sound, but as a psychological survival strategy, a systemic weapon, and a site of hidden resistance.
To anchor our discussion, we will look at Ghassan Kanafani’s masterpiece, Men in the Sun. Rather than a passive state, Kanafani positions silence as a harrowing choice forced upon those navigating displacement and borders. Depending on the context we find ourselves in and the power dynamics at play, silence can transform drastically. It can be a tactical shield for self-preservation, a crushing weight imposed by systemic erasure, or a tragic barrier that isolates us from collective action.
By exploring these various materializations, we aim to understand the internal landscapes of those living under violent structures of dispossession. Kanafani stands out as a vital intellectual who gave voice to the complexities of exile with unmatched clarity, reminding us that the choices made under the pressure of survival are rarely simple.
What to Expect from the Event?
This space is carved out for collective thinking, active dialogue, and parsing through text together. We will anchor our event in Ghassan Kanafani’s prose, using a curated set of questions to dissect the psychological toll of borders, the friction between passivity and resistance, and the anatomy of self-preservation.
We will challenge ideas as a whole group before breaking down into smaller, intimate circles. Equipped with text excerpts, quotes, and space to write, you will have the chance to map out your own reflections, connect the book's historical context to our contemporary reality, and co-construct meaning in real time.
Reading the book beforehand will certainly enrich your experience, but if you haven't finished it (or picked it up yet), don't let that stop you—there will be plenty of entry points for everyone to tap into the conversation.
Who Is This Event For?
This event is for anyone interested in decolonial thought, the psychology of survival, and those who want to explore how literature uncovers the invisible, unspoken costs of structural violence and border regimes.
Your Hosts:
Anika Seidlitz holds a background in education sciences and anti-Eurocentric politics. Having studied in Berlin, Anika focuses on dismantling systemic barriers in education and hosts a podcast dedicated to uncovering the institutional impediments faced by marginalized groups within the German education system.
Nur Turkmani is a writer and researcher. She grew up in Kumasi and Tripoli, and lives between Beirut and Lisbon. Her debut poetry collection, October, was selected by Chen Chen as winner of Purple Ink’s Poetry Contest and is forthcoming with Hajar Press in 2026.
Tickets
The event is free to attend, but the spots are limited! Registration is obligatory to enter.
The Venue
Good Company Books is an independent English Bookstore in Lisbon. Born from our love of global literature and our Portuguese heritage, we are crafting a space for people of all backgrounds to gather and enjoy the best books, events, coffee, and wine. Find out more on our Instagram.
How To Find Us
By Metro: We're situated a 5-minute walk from the Campo Pequeno metro (Yellow line) and a 10-minute walk from the Alameda metro (Green & Red lines).
By Bus: There are many convenient bus options 2 blocks away from us on Avenida República, with the closest stop to our store being Campo Pequeno-Av. Republica.
By Bike: If you're using the Gira public bicycles, there is a docking station right across the street (#431 - Rua do Arco Cego / Av. Magalhães Lima).
By Car: There is a paid parking lot across the street, between Rua Arco do Cego and Rua Dona Filipa de Vilhena. Street parking is also available around the neighborhood.
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