Writer Elif Şafak has been elected president of the Royal Society of Literature, the UK’s leading body for celebrating and supporting literary talent. Writing both in English and Turkish, Şafak weaves together themes of freedom of expression, feminism, and mysticism in multicultural narratives.
The Royal Society of Literature has named Elif Şafak as its new president, succeeding Bernardine Evaristo at the end of her four year term. Evaristo, a celebrated British author, critic and academic, is renowned for her groundbreaking novel Girl, Woman, Other, which won the 2019 Booker Prize and made her the first Black woman and the first Black British writer to receive the award. The novel cemented her place as one of the most influential voices in contemporary literature. Both Evaristo and Şafak craft formally inventive, culturally expansive narratives that center underrepresented voices and explore the complexities of identity, belonging and womanhood across global contexts, offering a clear sense of continuity in the RSL’s commitment to broadening representation in literature.
The position, which serves as the society’s figurehead, is filled by election from within the fellowship for a period of four years.
Şafak has written more than twenty books and numerous works of fiction and non fiction, with her novels translated into over fifty languages. She holds a PhD in political science and has taught at universities in Turkey, the United States and the United Kingdom, including St Anne’s College at Oxford. She also holds an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Bard College.
Reflecting on the appointment, sharing her reflections Şafak said:
“I am deeply honoured and excited to become the new president of the RSL – a much-loved cultural and literary institution with over 200 years of history and tradition, supporting writers, poets, playwrights, literary critics, librarians, translators and readers of all backgrounds. In an increasingly turbulent and harsh world where many in the industry feel lonely, and where there are too many challenges against writers, poets and all those who have dedicated their lives to the written word, we must regard this as a much-needed sanctuary, an oasis, a space of togetherness, empathy, inspiration and creativity. I sincerely look forward to working closely with everyone to build bridges and spread the love of literature.”
About RSL
Founded in 1820 to reward literary achievement and encourage engagement with literature, the RSL is one of the most established literary institutions in the United Kingdom. It brings together writers, translators and literary figures from across the UK and around the world, guiding contemporary literature through its awards and fellowships while fostering a vibrant literary community.