Azem Shkreli was born on February 10, 1938, in Shkrel, Rugova, Pejë. He was an Albanian poet, prose writer, and literary critic. He died on May 27, 1997, in Prishtina.

Shkreli appeared in literature in the 1950s. His poetry set new heights in postwar Albanian literature. Critics consider him one of the most modern and influential Albanian poets.

He completed primary school in his hometown. Then, he attended secondary school in Prishtina. He studied Albanian Language and Literature at the Faculty of Philosophy.

Shkreli held important cultural roles. He led the Kosovo Writers’ Association for many years. He also served as director of the Regional Theater in Prishtina. Additionally, he founded and directed Kosovo Film.

In the late 1950s, he led the literary group known as the “ninth generation.” This group brought new poetic trends and modernized Albanian poetry.

His poems were translated into many foreign languages. Each work strengthened his place at the top of Albanian literature. His last poetry collection, Zogj dhe gurë, was published in 1997.

Literary Works

Bulzat (1960)

Engjujt e rrugëve (1963)

E di një fjalë prej guri (1969)

Nga Bibla e heshtjes (1975)

Pagëzimi i fjalës (1981)

Nata e papagajve (1990)

Lirikë me shi (1994)

Zogj dhe gurë (1997)

Prose

Karvani i bardhë (1961)

Sytë e Evës (1975)

Drama

Fosilet (1968)

Varri i qyqes (1983)

Azem Shkreli remains a central figure in Albanian literature. His works continue to inspire new generations of writers.

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