André Aciman Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

André Aciman is a renowned author and academic, best recognized for his novel "Call Me by Your Name," a story that has captivated readers with its deep exploration of love and identity. Born in Alexandria, Egypt, in 1951 to a family of Turkish and Italian-Jewish descent, Aciman's early life was marked by linguistic and cultural diversity. When the family left Egypt in 1965 amid political tensions, they settled in Italy for a time before immigrating to the United States in 1968. This rich tapestry of experiences has profoundly informed Aciman's literary voice, imbuing his works with themes of nostalgia, exile, and belonging. Aciman pursued his academic interests with vigor in the United States. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Lehman College in 1973 and went on to acquire a doctoral degree in comparative literature from Harvard University in 1988. He has leveraged his extensive background in literature to contribute significantly to the intellectual community. Aciman is not only a celebrated novelist but also a Distinguished Professor of Comparative Literature at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York (CUNY). His scholarly work reflects a deep engagement with literary theory, identity, and memory. "Call Me by Your Name," published in 2007, brought Aciman international fame with its sensitive portrayal of a summer romance between two young men in Italy. The book was later adapted into an acclaimed film in 2017, earning numerous accolades and renewing interest in Aciman's literary contributions. Beyond this novel, Aciman has authored several other books, including "Out of Egypt," a memoir, and novels such as "Eight White Nights," "Harvard Square," and "Enigma Variations," each exploring the complexities of longing and time. His writing is known for its evocative prose, nuanced characters, and insightful exploration of human emotions. Apart from his fiction, Aciman has penned essays and collections that delve into the complexities of the lived experience, examining memory, place, and language. Titles like "False Papers: Essays on Exile and Memory" reveal his profound ability to articulate the subtleties of personal history and identity. As a public intellectual, Aciman frequently contributes to journals and participates in discussions that underscore his reputation as a thought leader in the literary world. Aciman's impact extends beyond academia and literature; he is a cherished voice for those navigating the intersections of culture and self-understanding. His experiences as an immigrant and a seeker of identity enrich his narratives, offering readers and listeners unique perspectives on the universal quest for connection and meaning. As a keynote speaker, Aciman draws from his diverse background, captivating audiences with his insights on the human condition, the power of storytelling, and the search for the self amid the complexities of modern life.