On Monday, January 20th, 2025, the British Albanian Culture and Arts Association (BACA) hosted a literary evening at Koha Restaurant & Bar in Leicester Square, London, featuring one of the most distinguished figures in Albanian literature, Ibrahim Kadriu.
The event brought together artists, literature enthusiasts and members of the Albanian community in London to engage with Kadriu and discuss his works, life, and the cultural and historical themes embedded in his writing.
Ibrahim Kadriu: A Prolific Literary Figure
Ibrahim Kadriu, with over 80 works in Albanian and 20 translated into 11 languages, has had a remarkable 60-year career in literature. His contributions span fiction, poetry, and television scripts, earning him numerous national and international awards.
Kadriu’s works are known for their exploration of Albanian identity and history, and he has become a key figure in the Albanian literary community. Despite his 80 years, his energy and passion for literature were evident as he shared personal anecdotes and discussed the role of writing in shaping national identity.
During the evening, Kadriu discussed several of his notable works, including Russian Mission, a gripping novel blending historical facts with fiction to explore the Balkan War and the intricate web of espionage. He also shared insights and read for the mesmerised attendees his poem, Elegji Ditës (“Elegy of the Day”), which resonated deeply with the audience for its poignant reflection on political repression of Albanians in Kosova during the Yugoslav times.
His works is inspired by real events and characters, exploring themes of identity, history, and the personal experiences of Albanians, and the evening served as a fitting tribute to his legacy.
Key Guests and Thoughtful Conversations
The event attracted a variety of artists, notable guests and professionals, including actor Dritan Kastrati, who added to the lively and engaging atmosphere. The lively and often joyous conversations ranged from Kadriu’s literary journey to broader topics such as Albanian history, culture, and language. The attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with Kadriu, offering their thoughts and reflections while learning more about his experiences and creative processes.
One of the highlights of the evening was a discussion on Albanian culture and dance in particular, where Kadriu, Tomorr Kokona and others shared insights into its transformation throughout history, particularly under communist rule, as well as the need for an honest and sincere reflection on our history and culture often overloaded with myths and at times bombastic exaggerations. The audience showed a keen interest in these cultural discussions, reflecting a deep connection to the themes Kadriu explores in his works.
Special Moments
The evening also included a personal gesture from Kadriu when he gifted a few books to the moderator and another book to the poet and writer Vildana Dibra Zhubi (originally from Ulcinj in Monte Negro) about the tragedy of Tivar. This symbolic act reflected Kadriu’s commitment to preserving shared Albanian history and fostering connections among people from the region.
A Legacy Of Albanian Literature
The event was a testament to the importance of preserving and celebrating Albanian culture through literature. BACA, led by Tomorr Kokona, with the support of Lirije Kadriu and Koha Restaurant & Bar, created an atmosphere conducive to meaningful discussions and cultural exchange.
Kadriu’s contributions to Albanian literature are invaluable, and the evening served as a fitting tribute to his legacy. As BACA looks forward to future events, it remains committed to providing a platform for dialogue and reflection on Albanian culture.
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