A whiff of romance

A new collection of love stories has been introduced as part of Slovenia’s summer reading campaign, offering readers a chance to escape into emotional narratives filled with romance, conflict, and personal growth. The initiative, launched on August 4, 2026, features a curated selection of literary works that explore the complexities of human relationships through the lens of the romantic genre. Among the featured authors is Petra Julija Ujawe, whose novel Najboljše šele pride was published last year. The book reflects her personal journey during a difficult period, using storytelling as a means of self-discovery and optimism. The event, hosted by TV Slovenija, brought together several prominent figures in Slovenian culture. Nina Cijan, a well-known television presenter, led the discussion alongside Petra Julija Ujawe, a journalist, editor, and translator; Sanja Podržaj, a philosopher and literary comparative scholar; and Barbara Zemljič, a director, screenwriter, and lecturer at the Academy of Radio, Theatre, Film, and Television in Ljubljana. Their conversation centered around the enduring appeal of love stories, both classical and contemporary, and how they continue to resonate with modern audiences despite changing social norms. Ujawe shared her perspective on the role of love stories in personal transformation, describing herself as a cynical person who does not believe in romantic idealism. However, she found solace in writing Najboljše šele pride, which she described as a form of therapy. She emphasized that while the ending of a love story often symbolizes union, true fulfillment lies in self-awareness and courage. “Satisfaction comes from finding what fulfills you,” she explained. “It is not just the meeting of two lovers, but the inner strength to question oneself and take risks.” Zemljič, drawing parallels between classic and modern love stories, highlighted the importance of individuality in shaping narrative outcomes. She noted that contemporary novels often place greater emphasis on personal agency and societal context, reflecting the evolving nature of gender roles and relationships. This shift aligns with broader cultural movements advocating for equality and understanding within romantic partnerships. Podržaj, meanwhile, focused on the therapeutic value of engaging with literature. She argued that reading love stories allows individuals to momentarily step away from their daily routines and experience the emotional intensity of others' lives. “There is magic in this kind of literature,” she said. “It offers a temporary escape from the mundane, allowing us to feel the stirrings of another's heart.” The discussion also touched upon the balance between light-hearted entertainment and deeper thematic exploration. While many love stories offer humorous or lighthearted scenarios, they often contain subtle messages about social change, such as challenging traditional gender roles or promoting equal relationships. These themes, though sometimes presented through irony or wit, remain relevant in today’s society. In addition to the literary analysis, the program showcased a range of books written by Slovenian authors, including Ivan Sivec’s Modra vrtnica, which begins with the poignant lines: “To you, Alma, silent dreams of quiet women, sweet labors…” The anthology includes five titles spanning the 20th and 21st centuries, each offering a unique portrayal of Slovenian life and values, while addressing universal questions that remain pertinent today.