Akram Aylisli's novella, Stone Dreams, sparks a hate campaign in his native Azerbaijan. A pro-government party offers a reward to anyone who slices off the author's ear.

Nigerian music and movies enjoy international recognition, but what about the contemporary art scene? Nigerian artist Edosa Ogiugo on the challenges facing artists in the country.

The Strand visits the US mining town of Elko now which has just held its annual Cowboy Poetry Gathering. The event is now in its 29th year and as well as celebrating verse that reflects the life of the cowboy there's also a focus on cooking, dance and music.

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