New Book Preserves Oral Heritage of Old Podgorica

A new publication titled “Narodne pjesme, anegdote i umotvorine” aims to preserve the oral heritage of old Podgorica and Montenegro. Released in 2025 by the Sveti Petar Cetinjski Foundation, this book is the fifth dedicated to the work of Ilija N. Zlatičanin (1860–1941), a prominent chronicler whose contributions to Montenegrin literature are increasingly recognized.

The collection reflects decades of meticulous research and is a testament to the cultural richness of Montenegro. Compiled by Zlatko V. Zlatičanin, a descendant and long-time researcher of his ancestor’s work, this volume chronicles nearly thirty years of Zlatičanin’s efforts to gather folk songs, anecdotes, proverbs, and other oral traditions from various regions including Podgorica and Zeta, as well as northern and southern Montenegro.

Many of the materials were scattered across old magazines, newspapers, archives, and collections, while some remain irretrievably lost. The book’s value lies not only in its content but also in its authenticity. The editor preserved archaic expressions, the old Podgorica dialect, and Turkisms, consciously avoiding stylistic modernization. This approach allows readers to experience the original flavor of the language and mindset from the time when these works were created.

The anthology features a wide array of content, including women’s and men’s folk songs, heroic epic poems in decasyllabic verse, and anecdotes, particularly those concerning King Nikola. These narratives provide insights into the wisdom, humor, and resilience of the people, showcasing their ability to maintain a spirit of optimism even in challenging times.

Ilija N. Zlatičanin is often regarded as one of Montenegro’s most significant collectors of oral literature, frequently compared to the renowned Vuk Karadžić. Despite his important contributions being overlooked for many years, recent efforts to publish his complete legacy are finally bringing his work to light.

“Narodne pjesme, anegdote i umotvorine” not only contributes significantly to the preservation of cultural identity and collective memory but also serves as a powerful reminder of the role individuals play in the fight against forgetfulness. The book targets not only literary researchers and historians but also a broader audience interested in authentic records of a time, language, and spirit that still resonate today.

As Montenegro continues to navigate its cultural landscape, this publication stands as a vital resource for anyone wishing to delve deeper into the rich traditions of the region. Through this work, Ilija N. Zlatičanin‘s legacy and the vibrant oral history of Montenegro are safeguarded for future generations.