Jon Fosse wins Nobel literature prize

The Swedish Academy on Thursday awarded the Nobel literature prize to Norwegian playwright Jon Fosse, whose plays are among the most widely staged of any contemporary playwright in Europe.

He was honored “for his innovative plays and prose which give voice to the unsayable,” the Swedish Academy said.

His writing is defined more by form than content, where what is not said is often more revealing than what is.

Often compared to Samuel Beckett, Fosse’s work is minimalistic,relying on simple language which delivers its message through rhythm, melody, and silence.

His major works include “Boathouse” (1989), which was well-received by critics, and “Melancholy” I and II (1995-1996).

Fosse, 64, had featured widely in Nobel speculation for several years. AFP