Albania on Monday commemorated writer, playwright, screenwriter and journalist Dhimitër Xhuvani, who died on October 19, 2009.

Xhuvani was one of the most prominent figures in Albanian literature in the second half of the 20th century. Born in Pogradec on May 23, 1934, he initially trained in medicine and worked in rural hospitals in Gramsh, Librazhd, Cërrik and Peqin.

He later studied at the Faculty of History and Philology in Tirana and the Maxim Gorky Institute of World Literature in Moscow. After returning to Albania, he devoted himself to literary and journalistic work, contributing to the country’s literary press.

His literary legacy spans short stories, novellas, novels, plays and film scripts. Among his notable works are “Kambanat e fundit” (The Last Bells), “Midis dy netëve” (Between Two Nights) and “Tuneli” (The Tunnel). These works explore social issues and the relationship between individuals and their historical reality.

Xhuvani also made a significant contribution to Albanian theatre and cinema through his work as a screenwriter. His film credits include “I dashur armik” (Dear Enemy).

His literary achievements earned him several distinctions, including the third-degree Republic Award. His prose also reached international audiences, with works translated into several foreign languages.