Simon ParkinOne of the things that sets Latitude apart from other festivals, even Glastonbury, is the emphasis on the written and spoken as much on the sung word.Simon Parkin

One of the things that sets Latitude apart from other festivals, even Glastonbury, is the emphasis on the written and spoken as much on the sung word.

The Literary Arena, a cosy 'library' with an oversized book by the entrance, was one of the biggest hits last year and this year it will once again home to the cream of the literary crop.

Among the big names that will be giving readings, performances and answering questions will be Hanif Kureishi and Bret Easton Ellis (both Sat), Sebastian Faulks and Julie Burchill (both Sun), plus Jon Ronson, Adam Foulds, Natasha Walter and Arthur Smith.

Sunday will also see Keith Allen interviewing Peter Hook, and no doubt reminiscing about New Order World Cup anthem.

Comedian Robin Ince will again bring his disparate group, the Book Club, for a mixture of readings from all sorts of weird and wonderful tomes.

The Poetry Arena will be hosted acclaimed Norwich poet Luke Wright, and they'll be a large poetry contingent from the city, including Hannah Walker, John Osborne and Paul Mac Joyce.

Big name poets performing also include Wendy Cope (Fri), John Cooper Clarke and Blake Morrison (both Sun).

The Film Arena is much bigger this year and includes several coups including a screening of The Passion of Joan of Arc, complete with a live score from Portishead's Adrian Uttley and Will Gregory, and Q&A sessions with directors Paul Greengrass and Chris Morris.