“You’re putting out the fire with gasoline”

Wolf Biermann's Diaries – A Landmark in Contemporary History

Die Tagebücher Wolf Biermanns – ein zeithistorisches Ereignis

When Wolf Biermann was stripped of his citizenship following his concert in Cologne on November 13, 1976, it sparked a wave of protest both at home and abroad. For many, his expatriation became an occasion to fundamentally question the unjust regime of the GDR. Historian Ilko-Sascha Kowalczuk is publishing, for the first time, excerpts from the extensive diaries of Wolf Biermann, a defining figure in German contemporary history. The first volume, *Ihr löscht das Feuer mit Benzin* (You Extinguish the Fire with Gasoline), presented this evening as part of “Berlin Freedom Week,” marks the beginning of a multi-year publication series. It brings together compelling insights into the life and thought of an artist who consistently challenged the GDR regime. For many people, his songs and poems stood—and still stand—for freedom and self-determination.

Book presentation and discussion:

Dr. Ilko-Sascha Kowalczuk, Research Advisor, DDR Museum

Next date:

• Date Friday, 13/November/2026 18:00 bis 20:00
• Venue DDR Museum Berlin
• Address Karl-Liebknecht-Straße 1, 10178 Berlin-Mitte