Yiyun Li: "Placeholder and Serendipity"
On March 31, April 7, and April 14, internationally acclaimed writer Yiyun Li delivered the 2026 Berlin Lectures. The three lectures investigated two less-discussed roles of literature: as a placeholder and as a place where discoveries happen by serendipity. During a contentious time when humanistic values often feel as though besieged, and life is increasingly driven by quests and outcomes, Li discusses her eclectic reading practice and her life experience as an exploration of how to stay enchanted with a muddled and disenchanting world.
Past Lectures
Explore the previous Berlin Family Lectures, including session information and recordings of each year's series.
Publications
Each lecture series is developed into a publication with the University of Chicago Press. This collaboration with one of the premier university presses in the world gives the ideas and words of each lecture continued life in print form.
Series History
Inaugurated in 2014 with a gift from Randy and Melvin Berlin, the Berlin Family Lectures brings to campus leading scholars, writers, and creative artists from around the world. Each academic year, the visitor delivers an extended series of lectures, participates in the university’s intellectual community, and develops a book for publication with the University of Chicago Press.
Transportation
Access detailed information about event locations, directions, and parking to ensure a smooth journey to Arts & Humanities Day events.
FAQs
Get answers to all your questions before you attend this year's Arts & Humanities Day.
UChicago Arts & Humanities Day has partnered with Chicago Humanities to expand the roster of its speakers. In addition to lectures by UChicago faculty, which will remain free and open to all, this year's Arts & Humanities Day will feature a broad array of visiting writers, artists, actors, and public intellectuals who will be in dialogue with UChicago faculty whose research and teaching engages their work.