This video includes the following papers delivered on the 8th of April 2026 at the Essays Beyond Borders conference in Pisa.

Essay as a tool of nature preservation

A roundtable discussion on the potential role of essays as a response to climate change and the broader challenges of nature conservation. The language of science, while conveying devastating facts, often falls short in fostering the necessary shift in public awareness. It is essential for essayists to present these realities in a manner that resonates with a wider audience and cultivates a sense of planetary responsibility.

Is a contemporary response akin to Émile Zola’s J’Accuse necessary today? Can we effectively combat the widespread ignorance surrounding environmental issues?

We invited essayists from diverse backgrounds in eco-awareness to participate in this important dialogue.

Maša Jelušič (1982) holds a PhD in ecology. She is the author of several scientific and essayistic works, as well as a crime novel titled Professor is Finally Dead (2025). She leads a series of talks called Literary Ecoscapes at Cankarjev dom, Slovenia’s leading cultural institution.

Boris Kolar (1960) holds a PhD in biology. He is a retired specialist in ecological risks and the author of numerous published works, primarily novels and scientific articles.

Andrej Blatnik (1963) holds a PhD in communication. He is a professor of publishing studies and the author of 19 works of fiction and essays, translated into approximately 50 languages.

Lucijan Zalokar (1995) is an essayist and journalist who has published two books, one of which was nominated for the Best Essay Book of the Year in Slovenia (Rožančeva nagrada).

Mapping the planetary music

A musical event including music inspired by Roma and Native American tradition. Voice, looper, electronica. A mesmerizing event in an acoustic abundance.

Katja Šulc published six albums so far. Her essays explore the connection between poetry and music.  More on https://katjasmusic.com.