The German Literature Institute Leipzig: 30 years of creative impulses!

The German Literature Institute Leipzig: 30 years of creative impulses!

At the heart of German literature lives an impressive institution that represents a springboard into the creative world for many aspiring writers: the German Literature Institute Leipzig (DLL). Founded in 1995, the DLL goes back to a long tradition that began in 1955 with the “Johannes R. Becher” Institute for Literature. This was not only the first literary institute of its kind in Western Europe, but also a place where the ideological and artistic training of authors in the spirit of socialist realism was promoted. This information has MDR made available.

The forerunner of the DLL offered courses in poetry, prose and drama and was a place where legendary teachers such as the poet Georg Maurer worked. After the institute was dissolved in 1990 due to a decision by the Free State of Saxony, which determined that the courses offered did not meet the requirements of a democratic society, violent protests from students followed. These ultimately led to the re-establishment of the DLL, which has since been part of the University of Leipzig. The first director, Bernd Jentzsch, was replaced by Hans-Ulrich Treichel and Josef Haslinger, who continued to shape the institute.

Diversity and exchange

Today the DLL offers a wide range of courses in prose, poetry and dramatic writing. Students learn in creative writing workshops that promote exchange and constructive criticism. The course has not only developed further in terms of the courses it offers; The topics of student work have also changed over the years. While youth culture used to be a central topic, there are now also many political issues that concern aspiring writers.

Since 2006, students have been able to earn a bachelor's degree, while a master's degree with a focus on novel projects was introduced in 2009. Ulrike Draesner set another example with her appointment in 2018: She was the first woman to hold a chair at the DLL. These developments show the increasing cultural diversity among both students and teachers, which has a positive impact on the creative climate.

Engaging learning environment

The atmosphere in the DLL is characterized by an intensive exchange between students and teachers, which Kristof Magnusson, a graduate and teacher, emphasizes as particularly valuable. This exchange contributes to the creation of a lively literary culture that continually produces new impulses. The plan is to publish an anthology entitled “Tippgemeinschaft”, which will appear once a year and document the fruitful dialogue among the students. Every year around 15 applicants are interested in a place at this renowned institute, which speaks for the high reputation and quality of the training.

In summary, it can be said that the German Literature Institute Leipzig is not only an important educational institution, but also acts as a cultural hotspot where talent is nurtured and creative ideas sprout. The DLL remains an attractive destination for everyone who wants to learn the literary craft and immerse themselves in the world of literature. If you would like to find out more about the institute, you can visit the official website: literaturinstitut.de.