J. M. Coetzee

J. M. CoetzeeLECTURE WEDNESDAY, MAY 5, 6 P.M.

John M. Coetzee, winner of the 2003 Nobel Prize for Literature, will speak about his time in Austin and the social and political background of his career as a writer in South Africa in the 1970s. Coetzee (Ph.D., 1969), one of The University of Texas at Austin's most distinguished alumni, is an acclaimed novelist, academic, and literary critic. Said to be influenced by his own personal history of growing up in South Africa, Coetzee writes with strong anti-imperialist feelings. He has published 13 books, including The Life and Times of Michael K in 1983 and Disgrace in 1999. Both books were awarded the Booker Prize, making him the first author to be given the award twice. His novel, Waiting for the Barbarians, was adapted into an opera composed by Philip Glass. This program is hosted by the Graduate School, the Michener Center for Writers, and the Harry Ransom Center at The University of Texas at Austin.

The event is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, so please RSVP early to attend. On-site registration will also be available.