“Romanian Literature Days” returns to Chișinău with debates on Shakespeare, manipulation, and hip-hop
The 10th edition of the "Romanian Literature Days" Festival in Chișinău will kick off on Monday, May 18. The event will span six days and feature public readings, thematic debates, and meetings with writers from the Republic of Moldova, Romania, and the diaspora. The organizers announced a diverse program that includes discussions on the relevance of Shakespeare, the topic of information manipulation, and a dialogue on the relationship between hip-hop and contemporary poetry.
The festival's moderator, journalist, and writer Paula Erizanu stated on the "Bună Dimineața" show on Moldova 1 that the event will maintain its established format, featuring daily readings and thematic debates.
“Like every year, we will have readings every day at five o'clock at 'Librăria din Centru,' and from seven, we will have debates,” Paula Erizanu announced.
The festival begins on Monday with a debate titled “Blood, paranoia, and death in Chișinău: Why is Shakespeare relevant today?” According to Erizanu, this theme arises from the increased interest in Shakespearean tragedies staged in recent years in the Republic of Moldova.
“I think it's not a coincidence; I believe it relates to the geopolitical context we find ourselves in, as well as the wars around us and the presence of authoritarian regimes,” Erizanu commented.
Also on Monday, a debate on manipulation and disinformation will occur at the Literature Museum, featuring psychologist Mihai Șleahtițchi, journalist and poet Codruța Simina, expert Daniel Vodă, and Ana Revenco, the head of the National Center for Strategic Communication.
In the following days, the program will include discussions on topics such as the history of literature and gastronomy, the representation of love in literature, and the social pressures reflected in contemporary writings. On Friday, the public will have the opportunity to engage in a dialogue with playwright and writer Matei Vișniec, followed by the traditional literary marathon organized at the NOD Space Club.
The festival will conclude on Saturday with a meeting featuring writer Dan Coman, a debate on the relationship between hip-hop and 21st-century poetry, and a concert.
“We can say that hip-hop is also a form of poetry,” Paula Erizanu explained, noting that the idea for the debate stems from educational experiences that have drawn parallels between classic literary creations and rap music.
When asked about the role of literature in the 21st century, Paula Erizanu highlighted the impact of reading on emotional health and critical thinking.
“Reading on the page reduces anxiety,” she remarked, adding that involvement in artistic and cultural life can enhance well-being and even contribute to a longer life.
“If you want to live a calmer, more peaceful, and longer life while being more resilient to manipulation, I believe reading can help,” Paula Erizanu concluded.
