GTLF 2026 Workshop: He Has Been a Friendly Tenant...: Writing Remembrance Across Cultures

How do we write about someone—or something—we have lost? What matters in an act of remembrance, and to whom? Who speaks in the process of remembering, and who listens?

Finding the words to say goodbye can stir many emotions, from doubt and grief to relief, gratitude and even joy. Drawing on her work as a Poet on Duty and her experience writing farewell poems for the Lonely Funeral, Melanie Katz will explore how commemorative writing can create connection and become a means of transformation.

Following an introduction to Katz’s practice, participants will develop and share their own texts while reflecting on the cultural forms, conventions and questions that shape how we remember. The workshop welcomes different approaches to grief and remembrance, and asks participants to engage with one another’s experiences with openness, sensitivity and respect.

Please note that this workshop will address sensitive subjects, including death, grief and loss. Participants should bring their preferred writing materials. No prior writing experience is required.

This workshop requires a separate ticket, with a MYR 25 commitment fee. Participants who attend will receive a MYR 25 book voucher redeemable at the Penang Institute booth during the festival. The voucher cannot be exchanged for cash. Any balance above MYR 25 must be paid separately, and no change will be given.