Writers from Moldova and Romania join Chișinău workshop
Emerging writers from the Republic of Moldova and Romania gathered in Chișinău for a three-day intensive literary camp. The 11th edition of the "Leonard Tuchilatu" workshop concluded with an open-air reading, following days of rigorous creative exercises and peer review.
Participants worked under the guidance of established writers and mentors Dumitru Crudu, Maria Ivanov, Diana Iepure, and Florin Hălălău.
Constructive critique and craft development
The workshop offered debut authors an unvarnished perspective on their creative work. Emerging author Felicia Green emphasized that the mentorship provided an essential framework for professional growth and networking rather than prescriptive formulas.
Romanian author Șerban Axinte noted that participants rotated roles as authors and critics, delivering demanding feedback designed to refine writing techniques. Fellow participant Silvia Berdan highlighted the value of tailored reading recommendations alongside writing assignments.
Identity and literary unity in times of crisis
Discussions extended beyond technical craft into the social responsibilities of literature. Mentors led debates contrasting works rooted in raw reality with propagandistic writing.
Co-organizer Maria Ivanov stressed that the annual initiative reinforces the shared cultural and linguistic space uniting authors across the Prut river. Lead mentor Dumitru Crudu called for a reassessment of identity, historical memory, and national emancipation figures against the backdrop of regional conflict.
Honoring a legacy of Bessarabian literature
The working sessions took place at the "B.P. Hasdeu" Municipal Library, while the concluding literary recital was hosted at the "Aldea-Teodorovici" Square.
The camp commemorates Bessarabian poet Leonard Tuchilatu, who passed away in 1975 at age 24, leaving behind posthumously published poetry and prose. The project was organized with the support of the Romanian Cultural Institute "Mihai Eminescu".
Translation by Iurie Tataru
