Nottingham Culture & Café Scientifique

Memoirs of Hadrian By Marguerite Yourcenar
(Nominated by Venanzio, Page Count: 416)

Our pick for August is Memoirs of Hadrian by Marguerite Yourcenar. Originally published in France in 1951 after a decades-long gestation, this philosophical masterpiece chronicles the ultimate reflections of the Roman Emperor Hadrian as he faces his impending death. Written as a poignant, intimate letter to his young successor, Marcus Aurelius, the novel serves as both a political testament and a deeply personal meditation on power, grief, and the transience of human achievement.

When
Wednesday, August 19th @ 7:30 PM (The 3rd Wednesday of the month)

Where
The Vat & Fiddle Pub (Near Nottingham Station).
We’ll be in the Visitors' Centre function room or the Goldings Room - Head through the door to the left of the bar to find us!

What to Expect
Our book discussion typically lasts 90 minutes. We begin with the book nominator giving their reasons for the choice and their feelings on the book, then each attendee shares their initial thoughts in turn. Following this structured start, the floor is opened for a more free-flowing discussion on themes, characters, and other relevant ideas. The evening often concludes with members moving to the main bar for a social catch-up and a drink.

First Timers
Your first session is on the house! For our regulars, we just ask for £1 cash to help cover the £10 room hire fee the pub charges us.
Happy reading and see you at the pub!

Upcoming Reading
September: The Man in the High Castle By Philip K Dick
(Nominated by Gill Denman, Page Count: 274)

October: A Tale for the Time Being By Ruth Ozeki
(Nominated by Izzy, Page Count: 448)

November: The Book of Common Prayer By Joan Didion
(Nominated by Anna Chern, Page Count: 272)

December: The Bastard of Istanbul By Elif Shafak
(Nominated by So-Young, Page Count: 368)

Group Links