Date of Birth: January 28, 1936
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Biography
Ismail Kadare is a renowned Albanian novelist and poet, celebrated for his significant contributions to world literature. Born in Gjirokastër, Albania, Kadare displayed a penchant for writing from an early age. He pursued his higher education at the University of Tirana, where he studied history and philology, followed by a stint at the Maxim Gorky Literature Institute in Moscow. Kadare’s literary career took off with the publication of his first novel, “The General of the Dead Army” (1963), which garnered international acclaim. His works often explore themes of history, politics, and the human condition, reflecting the tumultuous history of Albania and the broader Balkan region. Despite the oppressive political climate under the communist regime of Enver Hoxha, Kadare managed to produce a body of work that subtly critiqued the regime while gaining favor both at home and abroad. Throughout his career, Kadare has received numerous awards and honors, including the Man Booker International Prize in 2005. His works have been translated into multiple languages, making him one of the most influential literary figures from Eastern Europe. Kadare continues to write and publish, splitting his time between Albania and France.
5 Interesting Facts about Ismail Kadare
1. Ismail Kadare was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature multiple times.
2. He sought political asylum in France in 1990, just before the fall of communism in Albania.
3. Kadare’s novel “Chronicle in Stone” is partly autobiographical, reflecting his childhood experiences in Gjirokastër.
4. He was awarded the Jerusalem Prize in 2015 for his literary contributions to the freedom of the individual in society.
5. Kadare’s works have been translated into over 40 languages, expanding his influence worldwide.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ismail Kadare
1. “Dictatorship and authentic literature are incompatible… The writer is the natural enemy of dictatorship.”
2. “The past is not a foreign country. The past is not even the past.”
3. “A writer’s main tool is his imagination. A writer without imagination is like a soldier without a weapon.”
4. “Literature is the best weapon against tyranny.”
5. “In the face of a dictatorship, a writer’s silence is a lie.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
The highest net worth achieved by Ismail Kadare is estimated to be around $5 million.
Children
Ismail Kadare has two daughters, Besiana and Gresa Kadare.
Relevant Links
1. [Ismail Kadare – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ismail_Kadare
3. [Ismail Kadare’s profile – Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16843.Ismail_Kadare
