Auckland and Sydney writers’ festivals report record attendance amid digital fatigue
New Zealand and Australian festivals mark their highest figures in decades, with observers attributing the trend to a collective desire for physical socialisation.
The Auckland Writers’ Festival has recorded its highest attendance in 27 years, with crowds increasing by 15 per cent compared to the previous year. The Sydney Writers’ Festival also declared its most successful event in 29 years, achieving record attendance and ticket sales.
The surge in participation at both events has been attributed to a collective desire for social connection and a reaction against digital fatigue. Clarke Gayford, a public figure who has commented on the trend, described the gatherings as a form of collectivism and a "timid re-entry into public socialisation" following the sheltered periods of the pandemic.
Gayford, who described himself as a "born-again book reader" after a holiday inconvenience forced him away from his mobile phone, suggested that the attendance spike may be a human reaction to the diminishing returns of online content. He characterised the current digital landscape as serving "AI slop" and short-form videos, contrasting this with the sustained attention required for printed text.
While book reading is traditionally a solitary pursuit, these festivals have become significant social hubs. Gayford noted that such events serve as "gateway gatherings" for public interaction, comparing their energy to music festivals. He also highlighted the rowdy nature of local book clubs in New Zealand, citing an incident where a group disturbed residents with a midnight singing session.
It remains uncertain whether this "book bump" represents a lasting cultural shift or a temporary trend. The extent to which anecdotal observations reflect broader societal changes, and whether other factors such as economic conditions or marketing contributed to the attendance figures, is not fully established.