Toronto’s book and magazine festival returned this fall to celebrate its 35th annual gathering at Queen’s Park.

By Meriem Nour

It was another incredible year of honoring reading, writing and literature at the Word on the Street (WOTS) festival.

As someone deeply passionate about literature and books, being at such a festival had a huge impact on me. I loved being able to walk, read and have small talk with a stranger or an author about a book cover or title that’s been beautifully miswritten because we shouldn’t have to follow rules when it comes to expressing our feelings. All this intensity and connection would not have occurred without these literary festivals.

There were plenty of great things happening, starting from the panel discussions, to live performances, a variety of interactive activities for all ages, as well as marketplaces offering the best selection of books and magazines in Canada. 

Walking through the festival felt like dropping old ideas and thoughts on the street and acquiring new ones that would each inspire us in a way. 

One of the talks at the festival was “Writing About Language.” There were four speakers: Margaret Nowaczyk, Irene Marques, Cassidy McFadzean and Stuart Ross. The moderator Stuart Ross discussed the importance of language, its uses and how it can shape the way we think and see the world. 

Three of the speakers briefly explained their latest books, some in the poetry genre, while others in an essay list form. Yet, they all shared their insights into the power of language and its ability to create dynamic and impressive effects on the audience. 

In the discussion, the speakers also talked about various factors that impact language, mainly concentrating on culture and its impact on words, phrases and format. In addition to that, one speaker pointed out that language has a huge influence on our ideology and therefore we need to be aware of how we use our words.

“Language is not reality, it’s a translation of reality but sometimes we forget that,” said Irene Marques, a writer and English professor at Toronto Metropolitan University.

The authors emphasized that literacy should not be bound by any strategies or techniques because it is a flow of emotions and thoughts that represent something within, especially poetry. 

At the end of the talk, the speakers shared their writing rituals these included waking up early, going for walks, lighting candles and sometimes just getting ready and writing immediately, because words will eventually pull each other together. 

When asked if they had any advice for aspiring writers, they advised writers not to be afraid to write and speak from their deeper selves, to trust their creative language and most importantly, to avoid writing too similarly to anyone else. 

Before ending my magnificent day at the WOTS festival, I chatted with bibliophile Liz. She shared with us her first unforgettable experience at WOTS. She said she recommends people to check out the festival. 

 “I think there’s lots of great diversity, [it’s a] great way to explore the Toronto literary community,” said Liz.

The way the annual festival targets all ages through both fun and serious activities demonstrates how it embodies its mission. It fosters a sense of community while providing an opportunity for book enthusiasts to interact and share their passion for literature.

Here’s to many more years of celebrating the magic of words.