Women whose lives preserve the story of Montenegro, the heritage that shapes us and the courage to find our own path were the focus of a conversation with writer Jasenka Lalović at Europe House Bar, held under the title ‘Where Does Your Story Begin?’
The discussion explored the position of women in Montenegro, both in the past and today – from the expectations that once defined their role in the family and society to the opportunities they now have to choose their own path. Through literary stories about women and their lives, Lalović brings Montenegro’s traditions, culture and history closer to readers, giving a voice to experiences that have often remained on the margins of family and collective memory. Her female characters thus become both witnesses to a particular era and voices through which to reflect on the challenges women face today.
These stories have found an audience across the region, while one of her books is currently being translated into French. The hope that her other works will also be translated into European languages opens up opportunities for international audiences to discover Montenegro and its heritage through personal, intimate stories about women’s lives. In this way, literature connects different communities, preserving the distinctive features of the place from which it emerges while revealing experiences that readers can relate to, regardless of their language or background.
The event also provided an opportunity to discuss personal and professional development: how much we are shaped by the people we meet, the interests we nurture and the decisions we make. Speaking about curiosity, talents, self-doubt and challenges, Lalović emphasised the importance of perseverance, self-belief and a willingness to keep learning, even when progress seems elusive. She encouraged the audience not to give up, as moments of greatest doubt can sometimes precede success.
The thought that „truth requires courage” brought these themes together, from being honest with ourselves and questioning our own beliefs to being willing to listen to and understand the experiences of others.
Through a discussion of literature, talent and courage, the event at Europe House Bar connected the preservation of cultural heritage with contemporary questions of equality and freedom of choice. It is precisely at this intersection that we find the values on which Europe is built: support for cultural diversity, bringing people together through creativity and equal opportunities for everyone to fulfil their potential. Jasenka Lalović’s stories gave these themes a human face through the lives of women, the choices they make and their right to have their voices heard.