From Soviet nostalgia to hybrid war: Irina Nechit’s "Melania’s Advice" hits the shelves
Renowned poet and journalist Irina Nechit has marked a career milestone with the launch of her latest drama collection, Melania’s Advice (Sfaturile Melaniei). The event took place at the National Museum of Romanian Literature in Chisinau.
The anthology compiles ten plays written over two decades, offering a raw look at Bessarabia’s journey from the post-Soviet transition to the modern era of hybrid warfare. Nechit describes the work as a blend of social commentary and deep human emotion.
A literary approach to the stage
Prominent writer Emilian Galaicu-Păun praised the volume, describing it as "home theater." He noted that while the plays have seen success on stage, Nechit’s work possesses a distinct literary quality that rewards the solitary reader.
The collection includes the highly topical play Talking to Putin, which recently aired as a radio drama on Radio Moldova in 2025. Nechit admits the work is "harsh theater," delivering direct truths that challenge both directors and audiences.
Capturing the spirit of the times
Maria Șleahtițchi, Director of the Museum of Literature, lauded Nechit for her ability to "catch the breath of the era." She highlighted the author's dedication to documenting contemporary tragedies, including the struggles of the Ukrainian people.
The title play, Melania’s Advice, was previously produced in 2018 by Petru Hadârcă for the Romanian National Radio Theater. Hadârcă, who also leads the "Mihai Eminescu" National Theater, emphasized the text's profound depiction of rural drama and maternal grief.
For over 20 years, Irina Nechit’s plays have been staged across Moldova and Romania. This new publication consolidates her role as one of the most vital voices in contemporary Eastern European drama.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
