Dr Ann Wroe, ‘Catching Souls’

How can a life be caught in 1,000 words?

Where can we find the essence of a person and of life itself?

Join us for an engaging discussion with Dr Ann Wroe, Obituaries Editor for The Economist, as she explores the delicate art of capturing a life in just 1,000 words. Drawing from her latest book, Lifescapes, Ann will share insights on how an obituarist distils the essence of a person’s life, answering profound questions about identity, legacy, and memory. How do we uncover the true essence of a life? What elements are essential in crafting a lasting portrait of a person?

Ann Wroe’s distinguished career spans decades of work in journalism and historical writing. After earning her doctorate in medieval history at Oxford, she covered international politics for the BBC and joined The Economist in 1976. Since 2003, she has edited the Obituaries page, often writing the tributes herself. Ann is also the acclaimed author of nine books, including Lifescapes, which has been shortlisted for the James Tait Black Prize.

Ann will be in conversation with Dr Victoria Philips (Columbia University). Victoria is an expert on Cold War cultural diplomacy. She has taught at institutions such as Columbia University and the London School of Economics and leads the Cold War Archival Research Fellowship. Her work, including the book Martha Graham's Cold War: The Dance of American Diplomacy, examines the intersection of politics, culture, and international relations.

This event is free and open to all.

Registration is advised. This event will be recorded.