Köhlmeier: Everyday life and memory - a ray of hope to Graz 'tragedy

Köhlmeier: Everyday life and memory - a ray of hope to Graz 'tragedy

In Austria, the killing spree at a Graz high school left deep wounds on June 11, 2025. Ten people, including nine young people and a teacher, lost their lives during the tragic incident. The perpetrator, a 21-year-old former student of the school, used a legally obsessed pistol and a shotgun. This dramatic act has triggered nationwide grief and memorial events.

Hundreds of people gathered on Graz's main square to commemorate the victims. Candles and flowers were laid down at the high school, and the Graz cathedral heralded during a mourning service. The city has called for three days of state mourning, and a black flag blew on half mast at the town hall and all over Austria. Mayor Elke Kahr and Governor Mario Kunasek emphasized the solidarity of the city in this difficult time. There were also questions about weapons legislation, since the perpetrator was considered a bullying victim and was previously without employment.

memory and everyday times in times of crisis

In the middle of this national tragedy, cultural events take place that address life and everyday life. The Austrian writer Michael Köhlmeier deals with the topic of "reminiscent" in the next matinee. While he is partly identifying with the quote, he also takes a critical look at the selective nature of memory. According to Köhlmeier, displacing and forgetting could even be vital, especially in times when personal worries remain despite external catastrophes. This is particularly up to date when you look at the “Praterstern” scene, which is also shaped by a terrorist attack.

The premiere of his new play "Praterstern. Scenes from our tragicomic life", which Köhlmeier developed together with the author Monika Helfer, takes place on June 18. Here everyday life is considered significant - an irrefutable part of our democratic existence. Köhlmeier advocates not seeing everyday life as a slightly low, but as a myth that forms our basis.

setbacks and future prospects

In the silence that the killing spree left, there are also discussions about the security measures in schools. Around 1.5 million firearms are registered in Austria, which is a high number in a European comparison, and the Mayor of Graz and the Greens require a tightening of the weapons laws. The shock waves of violence lead to social debates, and at the same time there is a lack of school psychologists - only under 200 are available to the 5600 children and adolescents.

The perpetrator not only left tragedy, but also an incomplete picture of his motifs, as the farewell letter found and a video message show. In his apartment, even a non -functional pipe bomb was discovered, which also raises questions about the risk. Media reporting about the incident caused excitement - some reports have been criticized as sensationalist, which has tempted the press council to call up to prevent the perpetrator.

While the city of Graz is slowly returning to normal, work is being made to better understand the causes and consequences of this tragedy. Culture and art offer a space for reflection, while the community remains connected by grief and politics. Everyday life, with all its challenges and stories, becomes not only on the subject of art, but also an important part of the collective coping with what is happening.