Introduction »Howl«

Allen Ginsberg’s poem “Howl” (German: “Das Geheul”) is considered one of the most important works of 20th-century American literature. It had a lasting impact on the Beat Generation and influenced numerous artists such as William S. Burroughs and Jack Kerouac, as well as musicians of later generations, including Bob Dylan and Patti Smith.

On February 19, the poem will premiere on the stage of the Theaterhaus in a theatrical adaptation as a monologue performed by ensemble member Thato Kämmerer. On Tuesday, February 3, at 7:00 p.m., director Azeret Koua and dramaturg Marion Hélène Weber will offer an introductory talk on the play, providing insight into the historical and social context in which “Howl” was written, examining its provocative impact at the time of its publication, and explaining why the text has lost none of its artistic and political explosive power to this day.