The State Agency of Kosovo Archives, in collaboration with the General Directorate of Albanian Archives and the Institute for Spiritual and Cultural Heritage of Albanians in Skopje, is inaugurating the exhibition "Dorëshkrimet e Ismail Kadaresë" ("The Manuscripts of Ismail Kadare"). According to the announcement, the exhibition will open at 11:00 AM at the National Library of Kosovo.
A Tribute to an Iconic Author
This event takes on special significance following the passing of Ismail Kadare on July 1, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on January 28, 1936, in Gjirokastër, Kadare was a towering figure in Albanian literature and culture. Over his prolific career, he distinguished himself as a novelist, dramatist, poet, translator, and politician. Kadare served as a deputy in the People's Assembly from 1970 to 1982 and held the position of vice-chairman of the Democratic Front.
Widely regarded as Albania's leading contemporary writer, Kadare’s literary journey began with poetry, which brought him initial recognition. He later turned to prose, establishing himself as the preeminent Albanian novelist. His works, translated into approximately 45 languages, have brought global recognition to Albanian literature.
International Recognition and Legacy
Kadare’s contributions earned him numerous prestigious international awards. In 1996, he became a permanent member of the Academy of Moral and Political Sciences in France. Among his accolades are the Man Booker International Prize in 2005, the Prince of Asturias Award for the Arts in 2009, and the Jerusalem Prize in 2015.
In recent years, Kadare divided his time between France and Albania, continuing to inspire generations of writers and readers worldwide.
A Celebration of Kadare's Literary Heritage
The exhibition "Dorëshkrimet e Ismail Kadaresë" will provide a unique opportunity to explore the creative process behind Kadare's iconic works. Visitors will have the chance to delve into his manuscripts, gaining insights into the mind of one of the most celebrated authors in modern literature. This event is a fitting tribute to a man who left an indelible mark on Albanian and world literature.