Literature as Life's Companion: Reading as Existential Practice

Some books fade from memory, while others become part of us and resurface when we need to understand our own experiences or find solace in life's difficult moments. In this lecture, author Anette Leonora Andersen explores what literature can mean to us throughout our lives and why we never stop reading.

We examine how fiction offers recognition, new perspectives, and language for feelings and experiences that are difficult to express ourselves. Through literary works, we follow the human journey through falling in love, parenthood, work, divorce, illness, loneliness, aging, grief, and hope. Kierkegaard's thoughts on human existence are woven in as a philosophical framework.

The lecture is based on Andersen's forthcoming book Literature as Life's Companion (released October 27, 2026) and combines literary examples, reflection, and dialogue with the audience.