Bob Dylan informed the Nobel Prize Committee that he will not be able to attene the 2016 Ceremony in Stockholm. On Wednesday, The Swedish Academy told The Associated Press, that the songwriter informed them of his absence because of prior commitments.
Bob Dylan Nobel Prize For Literature: Musician A No-Show At The Awarding
Sara Danius, Permanent Secretary of Nobel Prize, reportedly informed the news agencies that they received a letter from Bob Dylan. The letter emphasized that the songwriter felt extremely honored by the recognition. Further, she was quoted saying that The Academy reveres Dylan's decision and that his position is uncommon but not extraordinary.
This same situation happened in 2004 when Austrian novelist and playwright Elfriede Jelinek refrained from attending due to social phobia. More details are expected on Friday as who will accept the award on Bob Dylan's behalf is still unclear.
As a requirement, Bob Dylan must hold a Nobel Lecture within six months, which is what the group is looking forward to. Bob Dylan is the first American to receive such citation after Toni Morrison in 1993. The Academy awarded him the literature prize in October 13, stating that he has created new poetic expressions within the great American tradition of songs.
Bob Dylan Nobel Prize For Literature: Singer Arrogant & Impolite?
The succeeding days, however, packed the media with head-shaking events. The Academy was not able to talk to the singer. Danius was further quoted saying that they cannot do anything at the moment and admitted that there is a lack of communication. She said that they have already sent emails and contacted the songwriter's closest agent and have received polite responses.
Writer Per Wastberg termed Bob Dylan's silence as arrogance and impoliteness. He is a member of the Swedish Academy and was quoted in an interview with a newspaper Dagens Nyheter quipping that the situation is unique.
Bob Dylan has acknowledged the award to some media. He said that the award is incredible and amazing. He was also previously noted to attend the ceremony if it is possible.
