Afanu Latiću Wins Prestigious Zaim Azemović Award for Literature

The Zaim Azemović Award for 2023 has been awarded to Afanu Latiću for his collection of stories titled “Pod oštrim uglom.” The award, presented by the Center for Culture in Rožaje, recognizes significant contributions to literature. Latiću’s work is published by Fokalizator, based in Podgorica.

According to Melida Travančić, a notable Bosnian-Herzegovinian writer and critic, Latiću’s book uniquely connects the past and present while hinting at future possibilities. She stated that the stories serve as a means to view the world through different lenses, enabling readers to perceive reality in new ways. This approach encourages reflection and exploration, making the text resonate deeply.

Afanu Latiću was born in Berane, Montenegro, in 1983. He completed his primary education at Hajro Šahmanović School in Plav, after which he enrolled in the Gazi Husrev-beg Medresa in Sarajevo. Following his secondary education, he pursued studies in Oriental Philology with a focus on Arabic and Turkish languages and literature.

After completing his studies, Latiću returned to Montenegro, where he has been working as a professor of Arabic language at the Mehmed Fatih Medresa in Podgorica. In addition to his teaching role, he engages in translation work from Arabic and is actively involved in writing both poetry and prose.

This recognition not only highlights Latiću’s literary prowess but also underscores the rich cultural contributions of Montenegro to the literary world. The Zaim Azemović Award continues to celebrate and promote writers who explore diverse themes and narratives, fostering a greater appreciation for literature within the region and beyond.