Paris, December 24 – The 4th edition of the short story competition, themed “Happiness, How Are You?”, has been officially launched in Paris. This annual event, organized by the 5th arrondissement Town Hall as part of the Quartier du Livre festival, invites both youth and adults to explore the concept of happiness through creative writing. The competition, which is free to enter, will run from December 16, 2025, until February 28, 2026.
Competition Details and Theme
The theme for this year’s competition, “Happiness, How Are You?” (Le bonheur, comment ça va?), aims to inspire participants to delve into various facets of happiness, its presence, absence, and evolution in contemporary life. The organizers encourage writers to interpret the theme broadly, fostering diverse perspectives and narratives. The competition is a collaborative effort by the libraries of the 5th arrondissement, building on the success of previous editions.
Participation and Submission
The competition is open to two categories: youth and adults, ensuring a wide range of voices and experiences are represented. Interested participants can obtain further information from their local librarians or by scanning a QR code provided by the organizers. The submission period extends over two months, allowing ample time for creative development and refinement of entries. All submissions must adhere to the specified guidelines, which can be obtained through the aforementioned channels.
Event Location and Institutional Support
The primary contact point for the competition is the Bibliothèque Mohammed Arkoun, located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris (75005 Paris). This institution serves as a central hub for inquiries and information dissemination regarding the competition. The event is supported by institutional bodies, as indicated by the official event listing, ensuring its legitimacy and broad reach within the Parisian community. The last update regarding the event details was made on December 23, 2025.
Contact Information
For additional details or inquiries, participants can contact the Bibliothèque Mohammed Arkoun directly via phone at +33143379654 or email at [email protected]. Further information is also available on the official Paris events website: www.paris.fr/evenements/concours-de-nouvelles-le-bonheur-comment-ca-va-103379. The event is also promoted across social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, to engage a wider audience.
Significance of the Quartier du Livre Festival
The short story competition is a key component of the broader Quartier du Livre festival, an initiative designed to promote literature and reading within the 5th arrondissement. The festival typically features a variety of literary events, including readings, workshops, and discussions, aiming to foster a vibrant cultural environment. The inclusion of a short story competition encourages active participation from the community, nurturing new literary talent and celebrating the art of storytelling.
Past Success and Future Outlook
This marks the 4th edition of the competition, indicating its growing popularity and established presence within the Parisian cultural calendar. Previous editions have successfully attracted numerous participants and showcased diverse literary works. The continued organization of such events underscores the commitment of the 5th arrondissement Town Hall to cultural enrichment and community engagement through literature. The organizers anticipate another successful turnout for this year’s competition, with a rich array of stories exploring the multifaceted theme of happiness.
Source: https://www.jds.fr/paris/spectacles/concours-de-nouvelles-le-bonheur-comment-ca-va-1302704_A
