Keiron Pim: The Genius and Tragedy of Joseph Roth

Writer Keiron Pim visits the Appel Salon to discuss his new book Endless Flight: The Genius and Tragedy of Joseph Roth with host Eleanor Wachtel.

The mercurial, self-mythologising novelist and journalist Joseph Roth, author of the 20th-century masterpiece The Radetzky March, was the finest observer and chronicler of his age. Endless Flight travels with Roth from his childhood on the eastern edge of the Austro-Hungarian Empire to an unsettled life spent roaming Europe between the wars. His decline mirrored the collapse of civilized Europe: in his last peripatetic decade, he opposed Nazism in exile from Germany, his wife succumbed to schizophrenia and he died an alcoholic on the eve of WWII.

Exploring the role of Roth’s absent father in his imaginings, his attitude to his Jewishness and his restless search for home, Endless Flight delivers a visceral yet sensitive portrait of his quest for belonging, and a riveting understanding of the brilliance and beauty of his work.

Writer Keiron Pim will be interviewed by writer and broadcaster Eleanor Wachtel about his gripping account of Roth’s legacy, which speaks powerfully to us in our era of uncertainty, refugee crises and rising ethno-nationalism.

Q&A and book signing to follow. Books available for purchase.

Ticket registration for this event is required: Free tickets for this event will be available to book via Eventbrite beginning on May 20 at 9:00am ET.

About this event’s guests:

Keiron Pim

Eleanor Wachtel

Read more:

Endless Flight: The Genius and Tragedy of Joseph Roth

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This event is part of our new Jewish Heritage programming series, presented in partnership with the Miles Nadal JCC.

This series represents the first of two new heritage series, along with Islamic History and Culture (coming this fall). These series, alongside our established Black History, Asian Heritage, and Indigenous Celebrations series, aim to showcase the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our city.

By providing a platform for learning, discussion, and celebration, we hope to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of the Jewish community's invaluable contributions to our shared history and identity.

Join us in celebrating the diversity that strengthens our community and makes our city a more vibrant and inclusive place for all.

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This event is also part of our signature Salon Series, where we host local and international authors, artists and thinkers in conversation about their new books and big ideas.

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Note: This is an in-person event at The Bram and Bluma Appel Salon, the premiere event space for Toronto Public Library's cultural and heritage programming located on the second floor of the Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street).

Arrive early, meet people. The talk starts at 7 pm, but doors open at 6 pm. Come early so you can chat with your fellow literature lovers, and make new friends. As with all Appel Salon events, we'll have a cash bar with a selection of beer and wine, as well as sandwiches and snacks.

Tickets are only guaranteed until 15 minutes before the show starts, at which point we will start opening up available spots to the rush line.

Accessibility at Toronto Public Library:

Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks’ notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca.