ANGELA KOSTA WINS MULTIPLE AWARDS

ANGELA KOSTA WINS MULTIPLE PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS IN ITALY AND IS APPOINTED HEAD OF PRESS OFFICE OF THE TIBERINA ACADEMY AND THE "WOMEN'S CHAIR" ASSOCIATION REGISTERED WITH THE UNITED NATIONS

Angela Kosta, now well-known in the global literary landscape, has been declared winner in several prestigious international literary competitions held in Italy. In addition, she received the honorary appointment as Head of the Press Office of the Tiberina Academy and the Women’s Chair Association, registered with the United Nations.

GRAND JURY PRIZE – 31st EDITION OF THE NATIONAL AWARD FOR UNPUBLISHED POETRY "OSSI DI SEPPIA"

– On March 1, 2025, in the Municipality of Taggia, Province of Imperia, the 31st edition of the National Award for Unpublished Poetry "Ossi di Seppia" took place. The President of the Award, Municipal Culture Councillor Dr. Chiara Cerri, and the Secretary of the Award, Lamberto Garzia, declared Angela Kosta the winner of the Grand Jury Prize – Section A with the poem: "Resilience".

HONORARY AWARD – 4th EDITION “THE MAGIC OF WORDS”

– On September 14, 2025, in Bonate Sotto (Bergamo), the "International Artistic Literary Movement Group" Association, chaired by Dr. Anna Maria Lombardi, organized the event: Magia Delle Parole- Quello che non dissi mai - The Magic of Words - "What I Never Said", 4th Edition. Angela Kosta was awarded the Extra Competition Tribute Award for her commitment as a Translator and Cultural Promoter on an international level. She also received a medal and an Honorable Mention for the poem "Sculpted Symphony", in memory of the tragedy of the Albanians who disappeared in the Otranto Channel on March 28, 1997.

The event was held under the patronage of the Lombardy Region, Province of Bergamo, Municipality of Bonate Sotto, etc.

Nearly three intense hours were spent in the company of the authors' wonderful verses, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

In addition to the President, Cav. Dr. Anna Maria Lombardi, the Vice President Dr. Maria Pellino, Mayor Carlo Previtali, and Culture Councillor Mattia Liga were also present. Many participants were awarded, some multiple times, with over 150 attendees from all over Italy, as well as from Kosovo, Albania, France, Germany, Yugoslavia, Romania, and more. During the event, Dr. Chiara Medolago and Carlo Zanutto also gave speeches.

GRAND JURY PRIZE – "IL MELETO DI GUIDO GOZZANO"

– On September 15, 2025, at the prestigious Villa of Guido Gozzano in Agliè (Turin), during the 15th Edition of the contest "Il Meleto di Guido Gozzano", chaired by Lidia Chiarelli, in the category: Foreign Language Authors, Angela Kosta was proclaimed winner of the Grand Jury Prize with her unpublished poem: "The Torment of the Earth."

HONORARY APPOINTMENT: HEAD OF PRESS OFFICE OF THE TIBERINA ACADEMY AND THE “WOMEN’S CHAIR” ASSOCIATION

The Board of Directors of the Tiberina Academy, in the name of its President Cav. Dr. Franco Antonio Pinardi and the Director of the "Cattedra Delle Donne - Women’s Chair", Dr. Antonietta Micali, with the President Dr. Renato Ongania, unanimously resolved to confer upon Angela Kosta the honorary title of Head of the Press Office of the Tiberina Academy and the Women’s Chair (registered with the United Nations).

This honorary role represents an official recognition of Kosta’s valuable contribution and her prominent role within the institutional and communication context.

A MESSAGE OF LOVE AND HOPE TO THE WORLD - LEE HEE KUK

[Lee Hee Kuk]

[Angela Kosta]

It is a great honor for me to write a congratulatory message on the publication of the Korean translation of Perla d’Amore (Pearl of Love), the poetry collection of the esteemed poet Angela Kosta. Born in Elbasan, Albania, the poet has lived in Italy since 1995. Over the past thirty years, she has published twenty-eight volumes of poetry, novels, and fairy tales, many of which have been translated into various languages. Her works have been introduced to the world through translations into more than forty languages, appearing in literary journals and newspapers across Europe, the United States, Asia, and Africa. In 2023, she was honored as “Best Translator” by OBELISK, a literary magazine in Tirana, for her outstanding translation of Nobel Prize laureate Giosuè Alessandro Giuseppe Carducci.

Confronting the pain of wars and conflicts—both in her homeland and around the globe—along with the urgent crises of climate change and environmental destruction that threaten humanity’s future, she has consistently called for fundamental change through her writings. Her works resonate as messages of hope delivered to the world. With a spirit of sharing that seeks to benefit humanity, she has devoted herself to translating and disseminating the works of outstanding poets from around the globe. She has also actively collaborated with international media outlets in the United States, Germany, Bangladesh, Türkiye, Tajikistan, and beyond, thereby contributing greatly to global literary exchange.

Her tireless efforts—which include translating and presenting the works of more than 170 distinguished writers, including my own, as well as actively introducing over 600 poets and 85 artists in domestic and international literary platforms—constitute a shining journey. Through these noble endeavors, she has advanced the development of world literature, fostered mutual understanding and respect, and deepened the spirit of sharing. For this, I extend my enduring gratitude, admiration, and respect.

Finally, I earnestly pray that Albania, the poet’s homeland, which has long groaned under the pain of conflict, will soon cast off its darkness and, like a rising sun, be reborn as a land of prosperity and blessing under a bright and majestic sky.

By: LEE HEE KUK 

Senior Vice President of Korean Association of World Literature

Ashraf Aboul-Yazid: His Life and Works

Ashraf Aboul-Yazid is a novelist, poet, traveler, journalist, and author of literature for young readers as well as travel writing. He has worked in cultural journalism for more than three decades and was named Cultural Personality of the Year in the Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation (2012). He received the Manhae Grand Prize in Literature in 2014 (South Korea), won the Arab Journalism Award for Culture in 2015 (United Arab Emirates), and was awarded the Gold Medal at the Eurasian Literary Festival in Istanbul (2021).

He currently serves as Secretary-General of the Congress of African Journalists (CAJ), is a member of the Egyptian Writers’ Union, editor-in-chief of the Silk Road Literature Series and Silk Road Today platform, and coordinator of the World Poetry Movement (WPM) in Egypt. He was President of the Asia Journalists’ Association (2016–2024) and editor-in-chief of the Arabic edition of AsiaN (Asia News Network), 2012–2024.

Aboul-Yazid has authored and translated 44 books spanning fiction, poetry, travel literature, biography, translation, and children’s literature. His works have been translated into English, German, Spanish, Turkish, Korean, Persian, Sindhi, Serbian, Russian, Azerbaijani, and Malayalam (Kerala, India).

He began his journalistic career while still in secondary school at Al-Qalyubia, a semi-monthly newspaper then edited by journalists Mohamed Zaazaa and Mohamed Al-Attar. He later joined the editorial team of Al-Manar, a monthly cultural magazine under the editorship of Dr. Amir Iskandar, as an editor and translator. Afterward, he moved to Saudi Arabia to teach English (1991), then to Oman as a translator, editor, and art director for Nizwa magazine (1992). Returning briefly to Egypt, he worked as a cultural editor for Reuters News Agency in Cairo (2000), and as managing editor of Adab wa Naqd magazine (2001), before joining Al-Arabi magazine in Kuwait as senior editor (2002–2016).

Following his tenure at Al-Arabi, he moved to South Korea where he was elected President of the Asia Journalists’ Association and became responsible for the Arabic section of its online platform (AsiaN) and print magazine (Magazine N).

During his years at Al-Arabi, Aboul-Yazid also created, presented, and directed his own cultural television program titled “The Other”, aired on Al-Arabi TV in Kuwait. The first season was broadcast daily during Ramadan, while the second season aired on Kuwait’s First Channel. The program featured leading intellectuals, writers, artists, media figures, and diplomats, primarily from beyond the Arab world or from those building bridges across cultures. His choice of title reflected his vision of dialogue as a means of discovery and cultural exchange.

His creative roots—nourished by reading and writing, painting and travel—shaped his multidimensional literary career. Aboul-Yazid’s earliest award came in 1989, when one of his vernacular poems was selected among the top ten entries in a British Council poetry competition in Cairo. Later, he was honored in Bisceglie, Italy, for his poetry at the Mediterranean Peoples Festival (2004). Dubai Cultural Magazine honored him twice, as both poet and journalist (2009 and 2013). Tatarstan recognized him twice: first by naming him Cultural Personality of the Year (2012), and later through the Writers’ Union for his translations of Abdullah Tukay’s works (2013). Other distinctions include the Naguib Mahfouz Shield for Creativity from the Egyptian Embassy in Kuwait (2014), the Arab Media Forum Award in Kuwait (2015), the Patron of Culture Medal from the African Writers’ Union in Ibadan, Nigeria (2022), the Ambassador of Culture Medal and Sultan Baybars Medal from the Commonwealth Cultural Foundation, Kazakhstan (2023 and 2024), and the World Writers’ Organization Medal in Abuja, Nigeria, for his contributions to translation (2024).

He was also awarded the Sawiris Prize for Children’s Literature in Cairo (2023) for his novel My Cat Writes a Book, granted honorary membership by the Egyptian-Korean Development Association in Seoul (2024), and was named Africa’s Poet of the Year at the Silk Road International Forum in Dubai (2025).

Works of Ashraf Aboul-Yazid

Novels

• Shamawes, Ain Publishing House, Cairo, 2008

• Backyard Garden, Mashariq Publishing & Distribution, Cairo, 2011

• 31, Mashariq Publishing & Distribution, Cairo, 2011

• Al-Turjuman (The Interpreter), Bettana, Cairo, 2017

Poetry Collections

• Whisper of the Sea, Private Edition, Cairo, 1989

• Shells, Private Edition, Cairo, 1996

• Memory of Silence, Al-Jadeed, Beirut, 2000

• On the Path of Death, Kaf Noon, Cairo, 2001

• Memory of Butterflies, Gharib Library, Cairo, 2005

• Poems, Silk Road Literature Series, Al-Nasher Publishing, Cairo, 2024

Travel Literature

• Biography of a Traveler, Heaven Publishing, Cairo, 2008

• A River on a Journey, Kitab Al-Arabi Series, Kuwait, 2015

• Caravan of Moroccan Tales, Al-Mutawassit Publications, Milan / Rihlat Al-Afaq, Abu Dhabi, 2017

• Damascene Days, Khutut wa Zilal Publishing, Amman, 2021

Translations (from English into Arabic)

• Me and Surrealism: The Secret Confessions of Salvador Dalí, Dubai Cultural Book Series, Dubai, July 2010

• Ten Thousand Lives, by Korean poet Ko Un, Dubai Cultural Book Series, Dubai, 2012

• The Far Off Saint, by Korean poet Cho Oh-Hyun, Al-Ghasham Publishing & Translation, Muscat, Oman, 2013

• A Depressingly Monotonous Landscape, by Indian poet Hemant Divate, Silk Road Literature Series, Mashariq Publishing, Cairo, 2016

• Riding a Cloud to Search for You, by Korean poet Manhae, Silk Road Literature Series, Mashariq Publishing, Cairo, 2019

• The Grace of Stem Cells, by Dr. Jeong Chan Ra, Bettana, Cairo, 2019

• Four Poets on the Silk Road, by Konstantin Kedrov, Margarita Al, Sergei Biryukov, and Ashraf Aboul-Yazid, Cairo, 2022

• Four Hakka Poets from Taiwan, by Wu Chin-Fa, Chang Fang-Tzu, Tu Pan-Fang-Chi, and Tseng Kuei-Hai, Silk Road Literature Series, Al-Nasher Publishing, Cairo, 2023

• They are the Daughters of Siraya, by Miao-Yi Tu, Silk Road Literature Series, Al-Nasher Publishing, Cairo, 2023

• The Sixth Floor and Other Stories (Stories from Azerbaijan), by Meykhosh Abdullah, Silk Road Literature Series, Al-Nasher Publishing, Cairo, 2024

Children’s Literature

• Children from My Arab Homeland (poetry), Al-Arabi Al-Saghir Book Series, No. 170, Kuwait, November 2006

• The Story of a 5000-Year-Old Artist (History of Egyptian Art), National Center for Child Culture, Supreme Council of Culture, Cairo, 2006

• Korean Tales (translated folktales), Al-Arabi Al-Saghir Book Series, No. 188, Kuwait, May 2008

• Arab Travelers (biographies of travelers), Al-Arabi Al-Saghir Book Series, No. 196, Kuwait, January 2009

• Shurali: The Tale of the Woodcutter and the Wicked Spirit of the Forest, translated epic by Tatar poet Abdullah Tukay, Al-Arabi Al-Saghir Book Series, No. 210, Kuwait, March 2010

• An Underwater Postman (a poetic story), Al-Arabi Al-Saghir Book Series, No. 218, Kuwait, November 2010

• The Goat and the Lamb, translated epic by Abdullah Tukay, Al-Arabi Al-Saghir Book Series, Kuwait, 2013

• My Cat Writes a Book, Shagara Publishing, Cairo, 2020

o Nominated for the Sheikh Zayed Book Award (Young Adult Literature), 2020

o Winner of the Sawiris Prize for Children’s Literature, 2023

• My Father is a Mapmaker, Young Adult Fiction, Bayt Al-Hikma, Cairo, 2025

Studies and Biographies

• Biography of Color: Studies in Contemporary Fine Art, Egyptian General Book Authority, Cairo, 2003

• Memoirs of a Traveler: Sheikh al-Azhar Mustafa Abdel-Razek’s Journey to Europe (Critical Edition), Rihlat Al-Afaq Series, Abu Dhabi, 2008

• Sheikh Mustafa Abdel-Razek Traveling and Residing (Critical Edition), Ain Publishing, Cairo, 2009

• Youth’s Folly (Critical Edition of Al-Shabab newspaper by Bayram al-Tunsi), Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Alexandria, 2008

• The Silk Road: An Illustrated Cultural Encyclopedia, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Alexandria, 2013

• Women’s Noon… The River of Art (Biographies), Hilal Book Series, 2013

• Naguib Mahfouz: The Narrator and the Painter, Egyptian General Book Authority, Cairo, 2018 (Translated into English and Serbian)

Professional Career

• Member, Egyptian Writers’ Union

• Vice-President, African Writers’ Union, representing North Africa (2025)

• Secretary-General, Congress of African Journalists (since 2024)

• Editor-in-Chief, Silk Road Literature Series, Cairo (since 2016)

• President, Asia Journalists’ Association, South Korea (2016–2024)

• Editor-in-Chief, AsiaN Arabic (2012–2024)

• Senior Editor, Al-Arabi magazine (2002–2016)

• Cultural Correspondent, Reuters News Agency, Cairo (2001–2002)

• Managing Editor and Art Director, Adab wa Naqd magazine, Cairo (2001–2002)

• Managing Editor and Art Director, Nizwa magazine, Muscat (1998–2001)

• Editor & Translator, Arab Agency, Muscat (1992–1998)

• Editor & Translator, Al-Manar magazine, Cairo (1990–1991)

Awards and Honors

• Cultural Personality of the Year, Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation, 2012

• Manhae Prize in Literature (South Korea), 2014

• Arab Journalism Award in Culture (UAE), 2015

• Naguib Mahfouz Creativity Shield, Egyptian Embassy, Kuwait, 2015

• Jury Member, Costa Rica International Song Festival, 2018

• Jury Member, Kazan International Muslim Film Festival, Republic of Tatarstan, 2021

• Coordinator, World Poetry Movement (Egypt), 2021

• Medal of Popular Culture, Egypt, 2021

• Gold Medal, Eurasian Literary Festival, Istanbul, 2021

• Medal of Best Patrons of Literature, African Writers’ Union, Ibadan, Nigeria, 2022

• Gold Medal, International Elite of People’s Diplomacy, Kazakhstan, 2023

• Sawiris Prize for Children’s Literature (My Cat Writes a Book), Cairo, 2023

• Poet of the Year (Africa), Silk Road International Forum, Dubai, 2025

(PREPARED BY MARIA TERESA LIUZZO FROM ITALY)

National Poetry Competition

The Libertas Avellino Provincial Committee Establishes Scholarships for the First National Poetry Competition : Vincenzo Mancuso

The Libertas Avellino Provincial Committee, in collaboration with the Imperial Order of the Knights of the Grand Cross – Dynastic Magistral Order of the Antinolfi House, known as “di Collana,” has officially approved the awarding of scholarships to the top winners of the First National Poetry Competition. This initiative serves as a tangible recognition and support for youth culture and creativity.

This project is part of the second edition of the 2024/2025 "Raffaele Mancuso" Scholarship, promoted by FISI Benevento/Avellino – Libertas Avellino, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to fostering a holistic approach to education that integrates culture, sports, and personal development.

The award ceremony will take place on October 11, 2025, in the highly symbolic setting of the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium in Naples, during the Libertas Sports Festival, “Golden Medals Ceremony.” The event will be attended by representatives from public institutions, academia, cultural circles, and the sports world. This prestigious context underscores Libertas’ interdisciplinary approach to celebrating human excellence in all its forms.

The initiative stands out for its high cultural value, further enriched by the contribution of the Dynastic Order of the Antinolfi House, which emphasizes poetry as a spiritual and intellectual heritage capable of building bridges between eras, regions, and diverse sensibilities.

Official recognition has been extended to the National President of Libertas, Andrea Pantano, for his continued support of cultural initiatives. Special thanks are also expressed to the Grand Master of the Imperial Order and President of the Libertas Avellino Provincial Committee, Professor Vincenzo Mancuso.

The Libertas Avellino National Poetry Competition—with its associated scholarships and the award ceremony held at the Maradona Stadium—represents a virtuous model of cultural promotion on a national scale, centered on the value of the individual, talent, and the beauty of poetic expression.

For the competition rules, participation details, and updates, please refer to the official channels of the Libertas Avellino Provincial Committee.

By Vincenzo Mancuso - Italy

THE WORLD MUSE IN ALBANIAN

"NACIONAL” PUBLISHING HOUSE, TIRANA, RELEASES THE INTERNATIONAL ANTHOLOGY “THE WORLD MUSE IN ALBANIAN”, TRANSLATED BY ANGELA KOSTA

By: Dr. MUJË BUÇPAPAJ 

Dr. MUJË BUÇPAPAJ

The publishing house “Nacional” is pleased to announce the release of the poetry anthology The World Muse in Albanian, a representative work that brings into the Albanian language the poetic voices of 45 contemporary authors from across the globe. This anthology has been published in both print and electronic formats and represents a significant act of cultural and translational intercommunication within the Albanian literary space.

The selection, translation, and inclusion of biographical notes for each author have been carried out with exceptional professional dedication by the renowned translator and international literary promoter, Angela Kosta. On this occasion, I extend my deepest appreciation for her careful, high-quality, and generous work, which has enabled the realization of this publication to a high artistic and cultural standard.

The cover of the book was masterfully created by the internationally acclaimed Albanian-American painter, Nazmi Hoxha, to whom we extend our heartfelt thanks.

Due to space limitations in this first volume, a number of authors could not be included; however, they will be featured in a second anthology, currently in preparation and scheduled for publication later this year, as a natural continuation of this international literary project.

This anthology features poets from diverse countries and cultures, including:

• Italy: Regina Resta, Francesca Gallello, Maria Errico, Serenella M. Siriaco, Gabriella Picerno, Anna Maria Lombardi, Arianna Mosconi, Elisabetta Bonaparte, Antonietta Micali, Concetta La Placa, Marianna Iannarone, Sabrina Morelli, Anna Ferriero

• Turkey: Arslan Bayir

• South Korea: Kim Mi Hyung, Yang Geum-Hee, Yoon Jong-Nam

• China (Shanghai): Anna Keiko

• Brazil: Mario Belolli

• New Zealand: Christine Peiying Chen

• Israel: Iris Calif

• Azerbaijan: Tarana Turan Rahimli

• Morocco: Mohamed Ellaghafi, Hassane Yarti

• Denmark: Farzaneh Dorri

• Wales: Peter Thabit Jones

• Taiwan/China: Dr. Tzemin Ition Tsai

• India: Dr. Jernail Singh Anand, Dr. Shailesh Gupta Veer

• Kenya: Parvinder Nagi

• England: Strider Marcus Jones

• Poland: Antonina M. Wiśniewska

• Venezuela: Mariela Cordero

• Congo: Charles Lipanda Matenga

• Pakistan: Nasir Aijaz

• Bangladesh: Hasan Nashid

…and others.

In the preface, translator Angela Kosta writes:

"As you will discover in this anthology, the selected poets convey important and universal messages about life. They address contemporary social issues with sensitivity, express hope for a better life and future, and reflect the dilemmas that accompany it. The poetic material in this book resembles an encounter with fate, the future, and the uncertainty and anxiety that accompany our lives and world—alongside the challenges and hopes for a better humanity. Therefore, this book deserves to be read."

Aligned with its cultural vision and mission to disseminate universal values through literature, “Nacional” Publishing House places special emphasis on bringing into the Albanian language the most distinguished voices of world poetry and literature. The translation and publication of international poetry is not only a vital cultural act for enriching the national literary corpus, but also a powerful tool for the aesthetic, linguistic, and spiritual development of the Albanian reader.

These initiatives aim to foster sustained interaction with international literature, offering Albanian readers a vibrant window into contemporary poetic thought in its broadest dimensions.

In a world increasingly troubled by political, social, and ecological crises, the voices of poets and writers remain among the most sincere and necessary advocates for peace, promoters of humanism, and builders of bridges of understanding among peoples. Poetry, as the language of the soul and conscience, transcends national and linguistic boundaries and becomes a form of aesthetic resistance to violence, indifference, and oblivion.

In this context, anthologies such as The World Muse in Albanian serve as crucial instruments of intercultural dialogue and the safeguarding of fundamental human values through the art of the written word.

As the publisher of this work, I feel deeply honored to share this significant literary project with the Albanian public. Beyond its artistic value, it stands as a profound act of intercultural dialogue. For me—as a publisher, poet, and scholar of literature—it is essential to build bridges of communication with diverse poetic voices from around the world, in the service of peace, human love, and mutual understanding.

I hope this anthology will be received with attention and interest throughout the Albanian-speaking regions in the Balkans and beyond. May this work serve as an inspiring example of the power of the written word to unite cultures, enlighten the mind, and enrich the soul.

(Tirana, Albania – September)

ANGELA KOSTA’S TRANSCENDENCE OF NATURE AND LIFE

- Dr. KOO MYONG-SOOK

Angela Kosta’s poetry collection PEARL OF LOVE has been newly reborn in Korea as "The Pearl of Love" through the Korean translation of Dr. Kang Byeong-Cheol. I offer my heartfelt joy and congratulations. Thanks to Dr. Kang’s graceful Korean rendition, I too have been able to read with ease the works of the world-renowned poet Angela Kosta.

It is evident that most of Angela Kosta’s poems begin with nature. Images of forests, rivers, winds, and stars do not remain as mere landscapes; rather, they move as existential symbols. The star, for instance, emerges as a lamp that illuminates transcendent hope. Through nature, her poetry explores the fundamental solitude of human beings, as well as solidarity and the reasons for existence.

Her works also unfold the cyclic vitality of life—birth and extinction, life and death. In particular, her language is imbued with a distinctively feminine voice, evoking a gentle yet firm strength of life. She sings of the tearful will to protect life to the very end, even as she embraces human suffering. This is not mere sentimental femininity, but rather a force that affirms existence to the fullest.

Ultimately, her poetry transcends simple sensory description and conveys mystery and spirituality, leading readers to reflect on the fundamental meaning of life. Angela Kosta’s poems do not remain within lyrical impressions; they expand into the spiritual dimension. Through starlight, they console human sorrow; in the flow of the river, they reveal the cycle of life; in the breath of the forest, they evoke time and memory. For the reader, her work is not merely a “reading experience” but an invitation to meditative contemplation. Hence, Kosta’s poetry often resonates as prayer, hymn, or meditation.

In her poem "A Piece of Bread", she sings of survival and sharing. Bread symbolizes the smallest unit of survival and everyday life. Kosta views bread not as mere food, but as the minimum of love and hope that sustains existence. Through the meaning of “a piece of bread,” she celebrates the dignity, sacredness, and transcendence of life revealed in the smallest of things.

When one reads Life, it does not appear as a straight line, but as a “flow” and “cycle.” 

Life flows like a river, interweaving light and darkness, hope and despair. Kosta does not regard life solely as suffering, but emphasizes its cycles, lessons, and awakenings.

In "The Apotheosis of Beelzebub", she turns to the critique of desire and evil. Ultimately, her voice embraces human suffering and love, social critique and spiritual reflection, marking her as a true world poet. “Man kneels before the shadow of his own making, and calls upon the name of Beelzebub as if it were God.” 

With such striking imagery, she denounces the worship of power and the corruption of desire in modern society. Yet this is not mere religious satire; it can be read as a modern fable urging spiritual awakening and ethical resistance. 

Kosta’s language is concise, yet rich in imagery and symbolism, immeasurable in depth and breadth, while always offering the reader a refreshing sense of newness.

- Dr. KOO MYONG-SOOK 

Poet, Ph.D. in Philosophy (Bielefeld University, Germany), Visiting Professor at Soka University (Japan), Visiting Professor at Waseda University (Japan)

Currently: Professor Emerita at Sookmyung Women’s University, Executive at the Korean National Literature Museum, President of Seocho Cultural Center

ANGELA KOSTA’S RADIANT TORCH

By: Dr. SIYOUNG DOUNG (SOUTH KOREA)

[Angela Kosta]

[Dr. Siyoung Doung]

Recently, every morning I have been reading Angela Kosta’s poetry collection Perla d’Amore (Pearl of Love), translated by the honorable Dr. Kang Byeong-Cheol, founding president of the Korean Association of World Literature. Her poems are filled with the pain, suffering, and compassion of human existence. They pierce through the very substance of life’s darkness, crying out, weeping, and lamenting.

This voice is not merely that of one individual—it may well be words from the divine realm, the voices of those who, throughout human history, have lived under persecution. Humanity has existed and will continue to exist, yet within existence itself lies not only happiness but also the grim reality of hell. Reading her poetry compels us to think that something—anything—must be done to dispel this sorrow.

Her poetry was written in pain, and it must also be read in pain. It makes us reflect deeply on what it truly means to be human, and what we ought to do. Her literature is a bloody appeal, a cry that resonates across the world. To read and to listen to it is to confront the merciless misery inflicted by human beings upon one another. Ultimately, her words converge into a light that will brighten the present and future of human life itself.

The merciless hunger does not abandon us,

it circles and tightens around our hands...

(from Hunger)

In silence the devil rules the world…

He stretches his tentacles throughout the cosmos,

Fate’s misfortune germinates in them.

(from The Apotheosis of Beelzebub)

Throughout human history, there have been many philosophies and schools of thought. Reading her poetry recalls Michel Foucault’s philosophy—his reflections on prisons, schools, armies, and the unspeakable oppression inflicted upon a living being. It reminds us as well of Rousseau’s Discourse on the Origin of Inequality, and even Nietzsche’s ideas. Her work also evokes W. G. Sebald’s The Emigrants, as we think of her diasporic life lived between Albania and Italy, between two times, two spaces, and two cultures.

In that distance between two worlds, she makes vast territories and cultures come alive. She cultivates spiritual nourishment for humanity, sows the seeds of peace, and tends to them with her labor and action. Where Angela Kosta stands, the rising sun smiles, and there the immense shadows cast upon human history gradually recede. In her works, a radiant sunlight spreads softly across the world, preparing a shelter for those who suffer. I pay my deepest respect to her solitary, arduous, and magnificent journey and literary achievements.

Angela Kosta has published 28 books—including poetry, novels, and fairy tales—in Italian, English, Turkish, Arabic, and French. She has introduced the works of more than 170 writers through Albanian–Italian translations and has promoted over 600 poets and 85 artists in literary journals both in Italy and abroad. She has also translated the works of Italian noble poets and renowned authors into multiple languages. In addition, she serves as Vice President of a humanist organization, and has been appointed cultural and peace ambassador by non-profit cultural peace organizations in Poland, Bangladesh, Morocco, Canada, Algeria, Egypt, Mexico, Yemen, Romania, India, and more. Anyone who sees the breadth of her activities cannot help but be astonished.

In this brilliant journey of her life, I offer my enthusiastic applause to her new poetry collection, born in Korean, Italian, and English. I hail this new torch she has lifted, radiant in its brilliance.

- Dr. Siyoung Doung

Former Professor at Korea Tourism University and Jilin University of Finance and Economics, China

5th President of the Korean Association of World Literature

LIKE THE BLUE LIGHT CAST ACROSS A RAIN-CLEARED SKY

By: IM SOL NAE - President of Korean Association of World Literature, World Ambassador, International Academy of Ethics.

[Im Sol Nae]

[Angela Kosta]

I extend my sincere congratulations to poet Angela Kosta on the publication of her poetry collection Perla d’Amore (Pearl of Love) in Korea.

As Vice President of the Korean Association of World Literature, Angela Kosta has made remarkable contributions to global literature by participating in numerous international anthologies and translating the works of distinguished writers into multiple languages. Through her dedication and passion, she has played a vital role in introducing the beauty and depth of Korean literature to the world. For this, I express my deepest respect and gratitude as President of the Korean Association of World Literature.

Born in Albania, Angela Kosta has also served actively as an ambassador of literature and peace in various nonprofit cultural and peace organizations across the world, including Poland, Morocco, Canada, Algeria, Egypt, Mexico, Romania, India, and Yemen. Her literary activities embody universal human values and convey hope for humanity.

Her poetry is not merely an expression of beautiful language. While reflecting on the realities of her homeland, she faces suffering with honesty and transforms it into profound meditations that reveal hope beyond despair. Her work resonates as a testament to recovery, peace, love, and dignity.

The trilingual publication of Perla d’Amore in Korean, English, and Italian will allow her message to transcend borders and reach readers around the globe.

I wish to express my sincere appreciation to Dr. Kang Byeong-Cheol, Founding President of the Korean Association of World Literature, whose humanistic vision made this publication possible. It is my earnest hope that this book will be warmly received by readers in Korea and worldwide.

Once again, I offer my heartfelt congratulations on the publication of Perla d’Amore, a work that carries a message of hope beyond suffering.

By: IM SOL NAE

World Ambassador, International Academy of Ethics, President of Korean Association of World Literature

The Pearls of Love/Review

MAY THE LAW OF THE UNIVERSE AND HARMONY WITH THE WORLD BE REFLECTED IN THE DEPTHS OF THE SOUL

By: Yang, Geum-Hee (President of Jeju PEN Club)

Yang, Geum-Hee 

Angela Kosta 

It brings me great joy and heartfelt pleasure to celebrate the publication of the poetry collection The Pearls of Love by the esteemed poet Angela Kosta in Korea. I extend my warmest congratulations.

Angela Kosta has long devoted herself to international poetic exchange, guided by a deep love for humanity. With her vast global literary network, she has passionately supported the works of writers around the world. Especially as Vice President of the Korean Association of World Literature, she has played a significant role in introducing Korean writers to global audiences. Thanks to her dedication, Korean literature has been featured in prominent international media, helping to elevate its global stature. As the second President of the Korean World Literature Association, I express my sincere gratitude and respect for her noble spirit and unwavering commitment.

Angela Kosta was born in Elbasan, Albania, located in the western Balkans, and has lived in Italy since 1995. She is well-known internationally as the Executive Director of the literary magazine MIRIADE, a translator, essayist, journalist, literary critic, publisher, and poet. To date, she has published 28 books—including novels, poetry, and children's literature—in Albanian, Italian, English, Turkish, Arabic, and French, continuing her vigorous literary activity. Her literary works and translations have been featured in journals and newspapers across Europe, Asia, and Africa, and she actively collaborates with multinational media outlets.

She has contributed as a co-author to numerous international anthologies and has translated the works of over 170 writers between Albanian and Italian. Moreover, she has actively promoted over 600 poets and 85 artists in both domestic and international literary journals. She has also translated the poetry collections of eight poets from Albania and Kosovo, and has rendered into multiple languages the works of many renowned classical and aristocratic Italian poets.

She serves not only as Vice President of the Korean Association of World Literature but also as Vice President of a humanist organization and as a cultural and peace ambassador for nonprofit organizations in Bangladesh, Poland, Morocco, Canada, Algeria, Egypt, Mexico, Romania, India, Yemen, and other countries. As a Korean reader, I am truly delighted to see her poetry published in Korea.

Albania and the Republic of Korea established diplomatic relations in 1991. Reading Angela Kosta’s poetry, I am deeply moved and saddened by the painful reality and suffering her country endures. Although Albania may feel unfamiliar to us, the bonds of friendship can be strengthened simply because we are fellow inhabitants of the same planet under a shared sky.

Just as a pearl is born only after enduring time and struggle inside a shell, a poet perceives the world through the windows of the soul, gaining insight and expressing it in a new language to share with the world. Through this process, the poet reflects the law of the universe and harmony with the world in the depths of the soul. In this context, The Pearls of Love by Angela Costa contains profound emotions for all of Albania. Her work is rooted in observations of her country’s harsh reality, and explores the inner life of humanity.

For ordinary people who believe they can never transcend the limits set by fate, the duality of despair and hope may be the most difficult choice. Yet, we must not stop striving to sing together for hope. I have seen a tiny seed, no larger than a grain of millet, take root between rocks and grow into a majestic tree. Because I have witnessed such miracles, I continue to dream of hope that lies beyond the hills of suffering.

Just as a beautiful butterfly is born through the painful process of egg–larva–pupa, the beautiful wings of hope require suffering to unfold. We all carry bruises and wounds in our hearts. Poems written in moving and beautiful language are often written over those wounds, becoming healing balms that offer hope and courage. The more people become rich in hope, the warmer and more livable the world will be. I hope that her poetry will become such a healing balm.

Through beautiful and powerful poetry, we can overcome sorrow and pain, and poetry can become a light that brightens even the darkest nights. It is a flower of consolation, a beacon of peace for the heart. In order for the delicate flame of hope to burn brightly and illuminate the world, the warm support of readers who read and cherish poetry is essential. Moreover, for poems written in other languages to reach Korean readers, they must be translated and published with the highest poetic sensibility and linguistic refinement.

Thanks to the noble humanitarian spirit of Dr. Kang Byeong-Cheol, founding president of the Korean World Literature Association, Angela Costa’s poetry has been published in Korea in a trilingual edition—Korean, English, and Italian. As a Korean reader, I am deeply pleased to encounter the poetry of an Albanian poet in my country. I also pay tribute to Dr. Kang Byeong-Cheol for his dedication to this meaningful endeavor, building a literary bridge for international exchange in world literature.

Angela Kosta’s poetry, born from careful observation of Albania’s circumstances, absorbs and integrates the human experience shaped by suffering and deep reflection. Her poems discover truths unfolding in the human world. Like a radiant pearl formed within a small shell through patient endurance, may her poetry offer comfort and hope even in dark times, and may the law of the universe and harmony with the world be reflected in the depths of the soul—moving and inspiring readers in Korea and around the world.

By: Poet Ms.Yang, Geum-Hee

Second President, Korean World Literature Association President, Jeju PEN, Honorary Ph.D., Vice President of Korea Institute for Peace and Cooperation, Former Special Professor, Jeju International University, Editorial Writer, Samda Ilbo 

Poems by Jakhongir Nomozov

BALLAD OF CHILDHOOD

Childhood—

the dusty streets where I ran barefoot,

a bowl of water,

and a small piece of bread.

Childhood— the hopeful miracles of my life,

those days when I believed

that one could live forever

beneath the shade of a single tree.

When the moon rose— it chased after us,

and the stars… were the light

falling into my mother’s tears.

Now I look to the sky—

and it feels so low, so very low…

as if, to take back my childhood,

the heavens keep shrinking closer

to the reach of my hands.

I once thought childhood

was a single round loaf of bread—

I gave half to a bird,

ate half myself,

and the remaining half…

where have these fleeting years scattered it?

Life—

where have you hidden my childhood?

Now, no longer do we race through the streets,

instead the years themselves

race with us.

Today we flee backwards,

from grown-up life into childhood.

But in my eyes—

not wonder anymore,

only the trembling light

of tomorrow’s fears.

When musician winds played their music,

The rains had also sung their quiet song.

Until the moon had done make up in the sky,

Woken up from its heavy sleep the Sun.

The alarm clock is ringing "Wake up!" and “Wake up”,

Someone is awake, others are in slumber.

If only you knew that cage is home, but sadness,

Come here! You too join this life, dear...

Tear away the sadness lying in your eyes,

Banish the sad voices from your heart and soul.

Do take steady pace with firm confidence,

Fill your every day with a miracle, be full...

***

My devotion to you weighed heavily,

My love cost me a lot, what should I do then?

"I found true happiness in your heart, my love,

Did you become happy by letting me down?

I was lost, by losing reached my own soul,

These frauds and cunnings have opened my eyes.

Whose heart are you now getting slowly in?

And someone is leaving your heart, say good byes.

***

I got wet without getting in water,

Slanders poured down like rain.

I went back without starting my way,

I was defeated without having fought.

Sprinkling dust with my tears,

I sweep them with my eyelashes.

Don’t you consider me a human?

As if you are a human yourself!

Learned from the devils yesterday,

Became their teacher she today.

□   

MIRACLE

When musician winds played their music,

The rains had also sung their quiest song.

Until the moon had done make up in the sky,

Woken up from its heavy sleep Sun.

The alarm clock is ringing “Wake up!” and “Wake up!”

Someone is awake, othersare in slumber.

If only you knew that cage is home, but sadness,

Come herel You too join this life, dear…

Thear away the sadness lying in your eyes,

Banish the sad voices from your heart and soul.

Do take steady pace with firm confidence,

Fill your every day with a miracle, bu full…

I WANDERED

I wandered and strolled million years,

Million years I begged for calmness, my Lord.

Shadows of hatred crossed my road

Million years I did not utter any word.

Oh the pain of living hopeless days,

Oh my futile wishes, flippant disease.

Oh you wine of love in my goblet

Oh love – unconsumed for million years.

I WRAPPED

I wrapped myself with old troubles,

My head is veiled with distress again.

I had promised to cry no more, but

My eyes are weeing like a heavy rain.

Picture of sorrow is in my eyes today

Like an ancient book my heart is in dust.

My life is confusing like a whirlwind

Flowers of my hope turned all yellow, alas.

I am awake while I am sleeping

I pray even though I am asleep.

I am apart from this world and time

Do you know, where had I lost myself?

Stars of the night – my sorrow, my pain

And the night itself – very loyal friend.

Indeed, I didn’t love, I were not loved?

My hatred of myself will never come to end.

My dreams take to the memory land

I hold a heap of crumpled photos in my fist

If only you would return back to me

Oh happiness left in our old pictures.

Godly sorrow blossoms in my chest

It is the great love, a poem lifelong.

It will reach souls of mankind forever

With all my heart if I sing a song.

My soul, never give up because of the pain

Always stay ready to battle, to fight.

With the heart full of sincere wishes

I welcome morning’s early light.

Oh my heart, be pure as a sheet of paper,

Dreams are different, goals are alive.

There is no any space for sorrow

I call you happiness, new page of life!

* * *

My footsteps get heavier

The more I walk, the heavier these roads.

I could not know whether Almighty

Had sent to me these exams and odds?

My dawns get fully darkened

When I woke up with sorrow

When all of my wishes fell down

When I am in fire above and below.

Sitting alone with loneliness,

I drink my pain uttering a toast.

If I open my eyes from dreaming

I fell down from the sky to the dust.

You my dreams, please become my life

Unhappy days are only daydream ever.

Oh God, wake me up from my life but

Let me to be in dream forever.

□

PAIN

Love is absorbed into my body,

I cannot help singing a love song.

Each of these poems that I wrote

Is an oath I gave to the truth.

The sparks you see in my eyes

Are the lights come from Heaven

And the wishes bloomed in my heart

Are the mirabilis you have never seen.

My hope will never wither, dry up

Spring always flourish my soul.

There is a great pain which is able to

Flourish my veins and bones at all.

I was made from love of The Almighty

Does the life know who I am?

In my tiny body, in my little chest

How much talent and love do I have?

Does the life know who I am?

* * *

Life killed all the passion of mine,

Squeezing my heart like pomegranate.

He wanted to make my gentle white soul

Put on the sorrow’s black garment.

All my hope is becoming weaker and fading

My mountains collapsing down to earth.

Day by day my feet are plunging

Day by day my soul is losing its strength.

Lightning is crashing inside of me

As if my chest will be cleaved.

I am afraid, oh my Lord, I am so afraid

What if the whole sky falls down to my head?

* * *

□

SONG OF BELIEF

I wander in the gardens of my dream,

When the surroundings are under the moonlight.

I lie down being smeared with happiness

When the sky is hugging his stars tight.

Angels sing their lullaby for me

I sleep calmly with pleasure in peace.

Belief of tomorrow rises within my heart

I believe my future will occur like this.

My hands reach to stars, even to the moon

If only I decide to stretch them a bit.

The eyes of the sun will become blind

If only I stare a minute at it.

The eyes of the sun will melt…

* * *

I missed you dear, I missed a lot

Not willing to step in the path of lovesick.

Although I forget the oldest memories

My clothes hold the smell of your cheek.

Darling, these distances separated us

Our love weakened not reaching to destination.

Every second of mine passes seeking for you

May happiness be waiting us the next station.

The roses which I bought for you

Are withering and becoming yellow.

All the sickness of my heart is yours,

I sent you fragrance of spring, my love.

***

I failed to meet the rivers, my God

Sorrow encircled the days and the weeks.

The streams looking up for me dried

Because of the merciless sickness.

I failed to meet the width, my God

I got locked up in my room alone.

Swallow warbled so as to inform me that

Spring had come and already has gone.

I failed to meet my dreams, my God

Uploading all the sorrow to my shoulders.

Pains did enslave my pure soul

Have I been a slave of my old tortures?

I failed to meet seas, my God

Fiery breath burns my throat.

Bring me the smell freedom, please

And bring me news on liberty, free wind.

* * *

As if they caught a glimpse of something

Dogs yell and bark without any pause.

It is obvious that seeing the devil

Mulberries slightly rave in their dreams.

Having a doubt from something weird

Water in springs go on murmuring.

As if the horror of the death

Is closer to us in the night.

* * *

I cannot believe in what I trust

Indeed, spring returned to my heart?

I did not feel inconvenience,

All the ropes for me pulled apart.

Thank you, God, everything happened true

Ices of my soul melted in my eyes.

My goblet was filled with gold pieces

Goodness, I got rid of unhappiness.

□

- Jakhongir Nomozov

Uzbekistan 

ABOUT THE POET:-

Jakhongir Nomozov, born on January 24, 1997, in the Pop district of Namangan region, is a distinguished journalist, poet, and translator. He serves as a correspondent for Uzbekistan in various Azerbaijani publications, including "Butov Azerbaijan" newspaper and "YAZARLAR" journal, and represents the Turkish state "SIIR SARNICI" electronic magazine in Uzbekistan. A member of several prestigious international organizations, including the Azerbaijan Journalists' Union and the World Young Turkic Writers Union, Nomozov has received numerous awards, such as the "Abay" medal and "Pride of Science" award. He has published several books, including "Rebels in My Heart", "Sacred Space", "Awakening Song", and "Breath of the Sun", and his poems have been featured in international anthologies and publications in over 25 countries, including Kazakhstan, Turkey, India, and the United States. Nomozov is a student of the University of Journalism and Mass Communications and has been recognized with the "Guzel Alania Award" by the Turkish state. He is also an official ambassador of the Asih Sasami Indonesia Foundation to Uzbekistan and a member of the Azerbaijan Turan Writers' Union.