The Power of Memory in Jewish Fiction —in celebration of the Moment-Karma Short Fiction Contest with Richard Zimler

The Power of Memory in Jewish Fiction with Richard Zimler and Amy E. Schwartz—in celebration of the Moment-Karma Short Fiction Contest

Memory has long been a cornerstone of Jewish life, shaping ritual, custom, and identity across generations. In contemporary Jewish fiction, memory—both individual and collective—emerges as a powerful lens through which writers engage with history, trauma, and the legacy of the past. Join Richard Zimler, acclaimed author of the bestselling book The Last Kabbalist of Lisbon and Moment Opinon & Books Editor Amy E. Schwartz for a compelling conversation on how memory informs Jewish storytelling today. Together, they’ll explore the creative possibilities and emotional responsibilities that come with writing through memory, and the ways it can both illuminate and weigh on the literary imagination.

This special literary event also celebrates the three winners of the 2024 Moment Magazine-Karma Foundation Short Fiction Contest. The winners’ stories will be published throughout the year.

First-place: “What to Say” by Ilana Marcus

Second-place: “The Artist” by Chavah Chernobelskiy

Third-place: “The Villa on Targova” by Basia Winograd

Honorable Mention was also awarded to “This is How the World Ends” by Marla Braverman and “The Hotel” by Nicole Hazan.

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