Olga Tokarczuk, the celebrated Polish author and Nobel laureate, was awarded the honorary title of doctor honoris causa by the University of Sorbonne during a ceremony held on March 25, 2025. This prestigious recognition makes Tokarczuk the first Polish writer to receive such an honor, solidifying her status among literary giants.
At the ceremony, which took place in the grand setting of the Sorbonne's Grand Amphitheater—capable of accommodating nearly 1,000 attendees—Tokarczuk was joined by seven other laureates from diverse fields including science, humanities, and literature. The event celebrated not just individual accomplishments, but a shared commitment to values that transcend borders and disciplines.
"I am very pleased. I have great respect for academic work and for the university environment in general. Such a distinction proves that my books are taken seriously, that my artistic voice helps to understand the reality that surrounds us," Tokarczuk shared during her acceptance speech. Her words resonated throughout the amphitheater, where attendees reflected on the importance of literature as a conduit for understanding complex global issues.
In her address, she emphasized her metaphorical roots in the Land of Metaxy, a concept derived from Plato that symbolizes an existence between worlds. She expressed, "I come from the Land of Metaxy where sources of myth beat, stories are born, and figures from myths, fairy tales, and ballads live." This evocative imagery painted a picture of a realm rich in narrative and creativity, a stark contrast to the turbulent political and social landscapes prevailing today.
Tokarczuk did not shy away from addressing pressing concerns. She warned, "We have found ourselves in a very uncertain, perhaps even dangerous period in world history where information is used as a weapon." Her insight reflected a growing unease regarding the manipulation of facts and the proliferation of misinformation that defines modern discourse.
"In this 'reality of ubiquitous lies,' we must take care not to lose the 'real outlines of our world,' especially as hordes of forgers encroach upon the truth, able to make black appear white, and vice versa," she cautioned. By questioning the role of literary fiction amidst the current war against deceit, Tokarczuk highlighted the vital responsibility of writers and thinkers to uphold creativity and imagination during challenging times.
Accompanying Tokarczuk at the ceremony were other laureates, including notable figures such as Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and James Ferguson Skea, head of the International Panel on Climate Change. President of the Sorbonne, Nathalie Drach-Temam, remarked that these laureates embody "openness to the world, integrity, solidarity, humanism, diversity, respect for life, and freedom of opinion and expression," values that are increasingly vital as societal divisions deepen.
The Sorbonne has a long-standing tradition of honoring individuals who contribute significantly to academia and society. Tokarczuk’s literary achievements have already been recognized internationally; this honorary title marks the fourth she has received from foreign universities. Previous accolades include honors from the University of Sofia, Hong Kong Baptist University, and the University of Tel Aviv, demonstrating her global impact.
Beyond her numerous awards, Tokarczuk’s works are celebrated for their thematic depth, often exploring complex ideas surrounding identity, migration, and the human experience. Titles such as "The Books of Jacob," which garnered critical acclaim, showcase her innovative storytelling style that blends the fantastical with the philosophical. Her books have been translated into over fifty languages, further reflecting her widespread influence.
As a vocal advocate for literary arts, Tokarczuk continues to challenge norms and provoke thought through her writing. This recent recognition from Sorbonne is not only a testament to her individual talent but also reiterates the enduring power of literature to navigate turbulent times and inspire change.
In conclusion, the honor bestowed upon Tokarczuk by the Sorbonne is a validation of her contributions to literature and a poignant reminder of the responsibility writers bear in today’s society. As she navigates the complexities of narrative and reality, her work remains an essential part of the conversation on truth, myth, and the human condition.
