Poetry in Gallurese is tinged with pink, while poetry in the Corsican language renews a cultural bond that spans the Strait of Bonifacio. Quirina Ruiu (third from left in the photo), a poet, writer, and painter from Telti, is the winner of the 31st edition of the "Lungòni" Gallurese and Corsican Poetry Award, the ceremony of which took place yesterday afternoon in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele I, Santa Teresa Gallura. The winner took first prize and the "Lu Cumuni di Lungòni" plaque for her poem "Muderni solittù." Second place was also won by a woman, Gianna Piredda of Calangianus with "Cu l'occj di' una barabattula." Third place went to Antonio Giuseppe Tirotto of Castelsardo with "Amòri curriati." Giovanna Maria Mela of Badesi was awarded the "Giulio Cossu" plaque; the Gianni Filighedddu plaque went to Gigi Angeli, from Palau, while the Andrea Quiliquini plaque went to Tonino Sotgiu from Telti.
In the running section, Norbert Paganelli from Péri prevailed, also winning the "Jean-Baptiste Stromboni" plaque. Second place went to the Corsican-Argentine poet Angel Ricardo Dente, with Frédéric Terrazzoni from Bonifacio third.
After thirty-one editions, the "Lungòni" Prize confirms its value in preserving and promoting two languages that preserve the history, traditions, and identity of the communities bordering the Strait of Bonifacio. More than just a literary competition, therefore, it is also an opportunity for generations and territories to meet, with awards also open to school students. The jury was chaired by Piero Bardanzellu, supported by members of the Gallura and Corsican committees.
Culture Councilor Tiziana Cirotto was present at the awards ceremony. "The Gallura and Corsican dialects speak of our roots and the bond between communities that, though separated by the sea, have always felt close. This evening, poetry offers us the opportunity to come together and listen to the voices of this land," she emphasized, remembering those who have believed in the event over the years.
