Reading with John von Düffel: A look at water and family in literature

Reading with John von Düffel: A look at water and family in literature

On June 3, 2025, a special event will take place at the University of Bamberg: a reading and a conversation with the renowned author John von Düffel. It starts at 6:15 p.m. in lecture hall U2/01.33, An der Universität 2, 96047 Bamberg. This free event is aimed at anyone interested in literature and is part of the lecture "The Company. Work, Economy, Entrepreneurship in Literature".

John von Düffel, the future director of the Bamberg ETA Hoffmann Theater, will present his first novel “Vom Wasser”. Published in 1998, this novel, which has already been awarded the “aspekte” literary prize and a prize at the Ingeborg Bachmann competition, is about a paper manufacturing dynasty in the 20th century and addresses central questions of family and business.

Thematic focuses

“Vom Wasser” not only deals with a family’s business legacy, but also draws parallels to Thomas Mann’s “Buddenbrooks. Decline of a Family”. The thematic connections between these two works form the cornerstone of the conversation between John von Düffel and Professor Dr. Friedhelm Marx, who takes over the moderation. The area of ​​tension between family and business obligations is examined in a literary context.

At the center of Düffel's novel are the complex relationships with water. The water functions here as a metaphor and symbol, while the action is set on an estate called Mißgunst, where a paper mill operates on the rivers Orpe and Diemel. These rivers represent opposing principles that run through the entire story: While the Diemel is harmonious, the Orpe is characterized as wild and impetuous.

A look at the author

John von Düffel has consciously moved away from the literary world and is currently working on a new project called “Leibschreibe”, which he would like to realize together with Theresia Walser and Moritz Rinke. Nevertheless, he likes to refer to his experiences from the space of writing. “Vom Water” deals with ambivalent relationships, be it with water or with family members, and explores personal history without presenting German history as the main focus.

For his readers, von Düffel remains an author with diverse interests. He also provides information about future projects, including a potential novel about the element of air as part of his later work. His reading in Bamberg promises not only an exciting examination of his best-known work, but also deeper insights into his thoughts as a writer.

The event invites everyone interested to immerse themselves in the complexity of literary topics. For more information about the event, visit the University of Bamberg website at www.uni-bamberg.de. If you have any questions regarding the content, Professor Dr. Friedhelm Marx at 0951/863-2119 and the university press office at 0951/863-1182.