Sigurjón Birgir Sigurðsson, known by the evocative name Sjón, is a literary force hailing from Reykjavík, Iceland. Born in 1962, his artistic portfolio spans the realms of poetry, novels, lyrics, and screenwriting. Sjón’s novels, including “The Blue Fox,” “The Whispering Muse,” “From the Mouth of the Whale,” “Moonstone,” and “CoDex 1962,” have earned him prestigious accolades such as the Nordic Council’s Literature Prize and the Icelandic Literary Prize. Notably, his work has resonated globally, translated into an impressive thirty-five languages.
Sjón’s creative reach extends beyond the written word. He has penned over seven poetry collections, opera librettos, and collaborated with musical luminaries like Björk, showcasing his versatility as an artist. His lyrical contributions to the film “Dancer in the Dark” earned him an Oscar nomination, cementing his impact on the intersection of music and cinema.
In the cinematic realm, Sjón’s talents shine brightly. He co-wrote the script for “The Northman” with director Robert Eggers, adding another layer to his diverse artistic pursuits. Additionally, Sjón made history in 2017 as the third contributor to the Future Library project in Norway, joining the ranks of Margaret Atwood and David Mitchell in this innovative literary endeavor. Based in Reykjavík, Iceland, Sjón’s multidimensional creativity continues to captivate audiences, making him a revered figure in the global cultural landscape.