Elif Shafak’s writing has always challenged norms and explored diverse voices, and inspired through the power of story. Her writing reflects a deep spiritual wisdom and in this lecture she speaks about the beliefs she stands for, why she writes and the stories she wants to tell as one of Turkey and Britain’s most famous and influential novelist. Some of her most acclaimed works include The Forty Rules of Love, Three Daughters of Eve, and 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World. She is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and freedom of speech, and she often incorporates these themes into her writing. Elif Shafak has been nominated for the Booker Prize several times and is a recipient of many literary awards.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Autumn Lecture Series 2025 investigates those things in which we believe deeply – and for which we would be prepared to make a costly stand. We have assembled an inspirational line-up of speakers from the world of faith, politics, literature, poetry, dance, economics, psychology, history and academia. Each lecture addresses this question through the lives and perspectives of people who have advocated and often faced opposition for the things they believe in: individuals who have not just written or spoken about, but lived the values they have professed. Each of these speakers through their lives offer insight, prophecy, challenge, controversy, hope, warning, courage and vision. Where do you stand?
This autumn we listen to and learn from figures who have faced criticism and hostility for where they stand but have stood firm nonetheless. We invite you to join them and reflect on where and how you might be called to do the same.
Revd Dr Sam Wells
Vicar, St Martin-in-the-Fields