We are gathered here today to pay our last respects to an ancient and long treasured friend. My most sincere, heartfelt sympathies to all the friends, family members and lovers of the newly departed. I too feel the loss of our passionate, thrilling, memorizing and tantalizing companion. Though sometimes an untameable lover, quick to sweep us up in its grasp and take us to unknown reaches, the book has always been a reliable source of escapism. Today we mourn its passing.

That may seem a bit melodramatic, and in truth my first reaction to the theme of this year's Scream Literary Festival was defensive denial, but it does appear as if literature may be in the decline. But it is not yet time for the eulogies. There is still hope! This summer Toronto will rise to put the spark of life back into the oldest form of literature, hopefully resuscitating it once and for all. Though avid readers like myself may protest fervently that literature is still flourishing, why not bring back the love of reading for everyone?

And who might I be? My name is Mia, and I am neither a published writer nor an eloquent poet, but a simple bibliophile and English Major. My favourite genre of literature is science fiction because I love how speculative and futuristic universes can say so much about human nature. I keep a sci-fi blog here, and also write short stories in my spare time. I’m really glad that I have the opportunity to be involved in this great event and I can’t wait to get it started.

Thank you all for reading and enjoy the wake. Refreshments will be served.