Following last year’s visit by Jørn Lier Horst, the Embassy continues its campaign to promote Nordic Noir in the Philippines, this time featuring Norwegian American author Alex Dahl, a prominent figure in global crime fiction.
Alex Dahl, who is based in London, UK, and Sandefjord, Norway is bringing six of her titles to Manila: After She'd Gone, Cabin Fever, Girl Friends, Boy at the Door, Heart Keeper, and Playdate. Notably, Playdate was recently adapted into the British original series “The Stolen Girl,” now streaming exclusively on Disney+.
“Norwegians have a deep-rooted connection to crime novels. Påskekrim, or Easter crime, has long been a tradition in Norway, paving the way for one of the country’s most popular literary genres, Nordic Noir,” said Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Christian Lyster.
Nordic Noir has captivated audiences worldwide, with its gripping storylines of crime and mystery, while using a melancholic and slow-paced storytelling. The genre often unfolds a captivating storytelling that is more psychological in nature, which effectively delivers a more haunting atmosphere of the narrative.
As part of the Nordic Noir campaign, acclaimed Norwegian author Alex Dahl visited De La Salle University Manila for an inspiring forum with creative writing students. Organized by the university’s Department of Literature, the event was held at the Henry Sy Sr. Hall and featured an engaging Q&A session where students had the opportunity to interact directly with the author.
During the forum, Dahl offered a compelling look into her creative process and approach to crime fiction. She shared that her writing often delves into the psychological depths of her characters, allowing readers to understand the motivations behind their actions. “I give readers a glimpse into the inner psyche of my characters,” she explained, “so they can grasp why they do what they do.”
Dahl also encouraged students to embrace the discipline of writing, emphasizing that creativity is nurtured through consistent effort rather than inspiration alone. “Writing isn’t just about waiting for motivation,” she said. “It’s about showing up, putting in the work, and continuously refining your craft.”
When asked what inspired her to pursue crime fiction, Alex Dahl shared that her stories are often rooted in personal experiences. She emphasized the power of imagination in transforming memory into narrative, stating, “The mind is a powerful tool. We can revisit and reimagine narratives through creative exploration.”
Her visit left a lasting impression on the students, many of whom expressed renewed enthusiasm for pursuing their own literary ambitions.
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