The RSL is taking bookings from Members and Fellows only. For public tickets visit the British Library website.

Inspired by the British Library’s landmark Anglo-Saxon Kingdoms exhibition, four writers discuss how myth, legend, fable and folklore have influenced their work, and how great works of literature from the roots of our cultures can be reimagined for the modern reader. Joanne Harris’ 18 novels include the modern-day fairy tale Chocolat, made into an Oscar-nominated film, and three novels – Runemarks, Runelight and The Gospel of Loki – inspired by Norse mythology. Fiona Mozley’s novel Elmet takes its title from the Celtic kingdom that once covered Yorkshire, referred to by Bede as ‘silva Elmete’ or the ‘Forest of Elmet’. The novel combines myth and parable with the modern story of a family trying to live ‘off the grid’. Irenosen Okojie’s novel Butterfly Fish and short story collection Speak Gigantular weave together myth and fairy tale to create modern day fables, influenced by African and British mythology and folklore. Their conversation will be chaired by historian, broadcaster and author Janina Ramirez, whose books include the children’s Viking mystery novel Riddle of the Runes.