Cassola’s “L-Għajnejn ta’ Għawdex” Finds an Audience in Corfu

Imagine this: over 100 Maltese expats and locals gathered in a Greek taverna, not for souvlaki or ouzo, but to celebrate a book launch. The book? L-Għajnejn ta’ Għawdex, a novel by Maltese author Immanuel Mifsud. The location? Corfu, an island that’s become a second home to many Maltese.

From Malta to Corfu: A Literary Journey

On a balmy evening in late June, the taverna ‘To Elliniko’ in Corfu town was filled with a buzz of anticipation. The reason? A book launch like no other. Immanuel Mifsud, one of Malta’s most acclaimed writers, had brought his latest novel, L-Għajnejn ta’ Għawdex, to the shores of Greece.

The event was organised by the Malta High Commission in Greece, in collaboration with the Malta Tourism Authority and the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts. It was a testament to the growing cultural ties between the two Mediterranean islands.

Connecting Communities: A Tale of Two Islands

Corfu, with its Venetian architecture and crystal-clear waters, has long been a favourite among Maltese tourists. But in recent years, it’s also become a home away from home for many Maltese expats. According to the Malta High Commission, there are over 500 Maltese residents in Greece, with many settled in Corfu.

For these Maltese expats, the book launch was more than just an opportunity to meet the author. It was a chance to connect with their cultural heritage, to feel a little bit closer to home. As one expat, Maria Grech, put it, “It’s not just about the book. It’s about feeling part of a community, part of Malta, even when you’re miles away.”

Mifsud’s novel, a collection of short stories set on Gozo, resonated with the audience. The stories, filled with local colour and Maltese idioms, transported the listeners back home. As Mifsud read aloud, the taverna was filled with laughter and nods of recognition.

: Cultural Exchange and Tourism

The success of the event has sparked discussions about further cultural exchanges between Malta and Greece. The Malta High Commission is already planning more literary events, while the Malta Tourism Authority is looking into promoting Corfu as a destination for Maltese tourists.

For Immanuel Mifsud, the event was a reminder of the power of literature to connect people. “Books can bridge distances,” he said, “They can bring us together, even when we’re apart.”

As for the Maltese expats in Corfu, they’re already looking forward to the next event. “We might be far from home,” said one expat, “But events like this make us feel like we’re still part of Malta.”