New volume explores poet Mihai Eminescu's journalistic career
The "Writers Without Borders" project recently focused on the journalistic career of Romania’s national poet, Mihai Eminescu.
An event held at the National Museum of Romanian Literature initiated discussions regarding the influence of Eminescu’s editorials.
The discussion's special guest was Ioan Milică, the general director of the Central University Library in Iași, who is also the author of the new volume, The Phrase Factory: Eminescu in the World of the Press.
The event took place within the ongoing "Year of Eminescu" exhibition, which is set to incorporate Professor Milică's monograph.
"This work examines the press history and political atmosphere prevalent during Eminescu’s time," noted Maria Șleahtițchi, the museum's director. "The challenge is how to write about a figure researched for over a century in a way that feels fresh and engaging. Ioan Milică has found a very interesting approach."
Ioan Milică explained his perspective: "Eminescu remained fundamentally a writer, even when contributing to the journalistic field. We felt it was important to step back, examine the texts within their historical and cultural context, and understand how he established himself in the world of the press."
Journalist and political analyst Nicolae Negru highlighted Eminescu's continued relevance. He stated that Eminescu worked in the press during a complicated political era, and his chosen method for articulating his views remains a benchmark for today's journalists.
"He demonstrated very serious preparation and extensive reading. That is the seriousness I would wish for our contemporary journalists," Negru said. "Eminescu did not follow political orders, even though he worked at a newspaper affiliated with a political party."
Researcher Lucia Țurcanu stressed the importance of the new publication. "It is encouraging that a book on Eminescu's publicistic work has appeared, and that it is authored by Mr. Ioan Milică. We must continue to explore and value his body of work and write about it without the typical, excessive solemnity."
The "Writers Without Borders" project aims to strengthen cultural dialogue between Romania and the Republic of Moldova through activities focusing on literature, research, and shared cultural heritage.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
