On the Cuff: The Story of Romani Writing

Until recently, knowledge about Romani literature has been scattered across occasional scholarly articles, literary and ethnic journals, the occasional foreword or afterword and the memories of those directly involved. Now, for the first time, the history of Romani literature has been released comprehensively, in a linear sequence and within its broader context. Compiling it resembled an exciting detective investigation. This is the story of little-known Romani literature, the reading of which will surprise even seasoned veterans of the literary scene.

The beginnings of Romani literature in our country are linked to the aftermath of the Prague Spring. During the harsh years of normalization, its protagonists were forced underground and only rarely had the opportunity to speak out, thanks to Czechoslovak Radio, in cultural centers, and on the fringes—or rather, beyond the fringes—of official socialist culture. From the 1990s onward, they faced structural censorship and fierce competition in the newly established market economy. Despite this, the Romani literary voice is growing stronger, and the ranks of readers who appreciate Romani literature for its cultural richness, the uniqueness of its themes, the absence of calculation or posturing and its unconventional humor are also expanding.

Published by the organization Slovo 21.