Imagine, if you will, a residence where words dance. This is near Rue Marguerite Yourcenar in Lille. It is not just a street. It is a pathway to a writer’s haven.
Rue Marguerite Yourcenar is close to the Résidence Marguerite Yourcenar. It is a place where authors find solace. They find inspiration too. The Villa Marguerite Yourcenar is a residence for writers. It sits on Marguerite Yourcenar’s childhood land. This is Mont Noir in Flanders. It is nestled between Lille and Dunkerque.
Since 1997, the Département du Nord created this cultural space. It welcomes about 27 authors each year. These writers come from France and abroad. They may be emerging or established. The spirit of Marguerite Yourcenar inhabits this place. She is famous for her work. She is known for her commitments. The Villa embraces all literary inspirations. It is a place of creative freedom. It is a place of sharing.
A writing residence offers a special space in an author’s life. Organizers have two goals. They want to let authors pursue their work in peace. They also want to encourage meetings with local audiences. These meetings can be public readings or writing workshops. The Villa Marguerite Yourcenar hosts three authors each month. It organizes events around their residencies.
The Villa sits in the heart of Mont Noir park. This natural space shaped Marguerite Yourcenar. The Villa offers residents an exceptional site. Nature and literary creation are valued. The Villa has the Maisons des Illustres label. It joined the network of writers’ houses in Hauts-de-France.
Interested authors must have published at least one book. This must be an individual work with a publisher. The Villa seeks projects in novels, short stories and poetry. Theater and translation are also welcome.
Residents receive a writing grant. It is 70 euros per day. A travel allowance of 300 euros is also provided. The Villa covers breakfast and one daily meal. Residents handle other meals. The Villa asks residents to dedicate 70% of their time to writing. They may participate in professional events up to 30% of their time. Each month, a public event is held at the Villa.
The Villa Marguerite Yourcenar is built in a neo-Norman style. It dates back to the 1930s. It can host three authors at once. Downstairs, there is a kitchen and a library. There is also a dining room. A large room hosts public events. Upstairs, there are three studios. Each has a bathroom. There is also a computer room.
The Villa provides internet access and a copier. There are libraries, a TV and a CD player. Residents can use a car and bicycles. A fully equipped kitchen and a washing machine are available.
As you stand here on Rue Marguerite Yourcenar. Remember the writers. They found a haven. They found inspiration near this very place. The Villa Marguerite Yourcenar continues to welcome literary minds. It keeps Marguerite Yourcenar’s spirit alive.