Giller Prize: Anne Michaels wins for ‘Held’

Toronto author Anne Michaels was awarded the prestigious Giller Prize for her novel “Held,” a powerful exploration of war, trauma, mortality, and resilience. In her acceptance speech, Michaels emphasized the need for unity within Canada’s arts community, calling for practical alliances among all artists. This message was met with resounding applause from the audience at the Toronto hotel ballroom where the ceremony took place.

The Giller Prize ceremony proceeded smoothly, in contrast to the previous year’s event, which was disrupted by pro-Palestinian demonstrators. Several Canadian authors had boycotted the award due to its sponsors’ ties to Israel, including Scotiabank’s connection to Israeli arms manufacturer Elbit Systems. The controversy surrounding the sponsors led to a pre-taped broadcast of the ceremony instead of the usual live airing on CBC.

While the protests outside the hotel continued, inside, attendees enjoyed a private black-tie affair with notable figures such as former mayor John Tory and soprano Measha Brueggergosman-Lee in attendance. Despite the tensions and divisions within the arts community, Giller executive director Elana Rabinovitch reaffirmed the award’s commitment to supporting and promoting Canadian fiction.

The protests by groups like CanLit Responds highlighted the ethical considerations surrounding the sponsorship of literary awards. They called for the removal of sponsors with ties to Israel, such as Scotiabank and Indigo, citing concerns about human rights violations in the region. These calls for accountability resonated with the ongoing discussions about the social responsibility of artists and organizations in the face of global conflicts.

Anne Michaels, a celebrated poet and novelist, has been a prominent voice in Canadian literature for decades. Her previous works, including “Fugitive Pieces” and “The Winter Vault,” have garnered critical acclaim and accolades. “Held,” her latest novel, delves into the complexities of memory, grief, and hope, weaving together a multigenerational narrative that reflects on the enduring impact of war on individuals and families.

As the literary world grapples with questions of ethics, representation, and cultural responsibility, events like the Giller Prize serve as a platform for dialogue and reflection. The recognition of Canadian fiction and the celebration of authors’ voices remain at the heart of these discussions, reminding us of the power of storytelling to bridge divides and inspire change in society.