As the Indian summer draws to a close and the nights start to shorten, Southbank Centre has a tasty antidote to the oncoming Autumnal days. Their annual Literature Festival kicked off yesterday and runs until the 13 October with food for through from some of the world’s best writers and performers. Quick tongued wordsmith Kate Tempest performs some new and thought provoking poetry (10 Oct) and the legend that is Stephen Fry shares excerpts from his latest memoir More Fool Me, chronicling his escapades in the 80s and 90s – sure to be a bestseller once its released. It’s tonight so you’d better hurry if you want to attend!

Since she died in May of this year the festival is centred around a tribute to the writer and activist Maya Angelou. Famed for her spirit, courage and laughter she was an inspirational leader and renowned author, poet and playwright. On Saturday 5 October there is a special event in celebration of her life and works, chaired by Jon Snow and Moira Stewart. There will be readings of her autobiographies, contributions from leading writers and gospel music, ensuring it to be a night like no other.

Tomorrow (2 October) is National Poetry Day and its celebrated in style at Southbank Centre with an afternoon of free poetry events surrounding the theme of ‘remember’. Featured poets include Julia Donaldson, John Hegley, Daljit Nagra, and Kei Miller.

For budding poets there’s a chance to put your poem under the critical knife of the Poetry Butchers on 4 October. Experienced poets will dissect your poem and offer sage advice and creative direction. Explore the lives of Britain’s detainees – currently in prisons, immigration centres, secure hospitals and children’s homes – through their poetry written in workshops organised by the Koestler Trust. These award-winning poems will provide food for thought and creative inspiration for your own writing.

There’s plenty more on the programme for old and young alike so check out the line up here