Books That Were Meant to Disappear – Banned Literature 05.09.2025
The “Banned Literature” campaign is a manifesto in defense of freedom of speech and artistic expression—values that Willa Decjusza strongly identifies with.
A “banned book” may sound like a relic of the past, but there are still places in the world where literature is subject to censorship. The “Banned Literature” campaign is a manifesto in defense of freedom of speech and artistic expression—values that Willa Decjusza strongly identifies with.
In the face of ongoing attempts to restrict freedom of speech around the world, and the recurring temptation of censorship, the Polish Section of PEN Club launched the “Banned Literature” initiative. Its goal is to remind us of the fundamental importance of literature and the right to free access to books. Across the globe—including in Europe—there are still efforts to erase works, authors, and ideas that do not fit political or ideological narratives.
The “Banned Literature” campaign highlights books that are currently, or have recently been, banned somewhere in the world.
For years, Willa Decjusza has stood firmly on the side of creative freedom and European values, with particular emphasis on the right to free expression. That is why we have joined this initiative—to remind everyone that literature knows no boundaries, and books should never be subject to censorship or prohibition.
In our collection, you will find books that at different times and in different places were considered “inconvenient” or “forbidden.” At Willa, they are available to anyone who visits—and they always will be—because we believe that no one has the right to deprive others of access to knowledge, reflection, and imagination.
“Banned Literature” is not just a list of titles—it is a manifesto of resistance against attempts to restrict the right to read. It is also a reminder that European culture was built on dialogue, diversity, and the courage of thought.
We believe that freedom of speech and creative freedom are non-negotiable values. That is why at Willa Decjusza we give space to books that shape our thinking, inspire us, and teach us courage—including those that someone once tried to exclude.
You can learn more about the campaign on the official website and social media channels of PEN Club Poland.
In the face of ongoing attempts to restrict freedom of speech around the world, and the recurring temptation of censorship, the Polish Section of PEN Club launched the “Banned Literature” initiative. Its goal is to remind us of the fundamental importance of literature and the right to free access to books. Across the globe—including in Europe—there are still efforts to erase works, authors, and ideas that do not fit political or ideological narratives.
The “Banned Literature” campaign highlights books that are currently, or have recently been, banned somewhere in the world.
For years, Willa Decjusza has stood firmly on the side of creative freedom and European values, with particular emphasis on the right to free expression. That is why we have joined this initiative—to remind everyone that literature knows no boundaries, and books should never be subject to censorship or prohibition.
In our collection, you will find books that at different times and in different places were considered “inconvenient” or “forbidden.” At Willa, they are available to anyone who visits—and they always will be—because we believe that no one has the right to deprive others of access to knowledge, reflection, and imagination.
“Banned Literature” is not just a list of titles—it is a manifesto of resistance against attempts to restrict the right to read. It is also a reminder that European culture was built on dialogue, diversity, and the courage of thought.
We believe that freedom of speech and creative freedom are non-negotiable values. That is why at Willa Decjusza we give space to books that shape our thinking, inspire us, and teach us courage—including those that someone once tried to exclude.
You can learn more about the campaign on the official website and social media channels of PEN Club Poland.