Kovačević: The book will not disappear even in the era of artificial intelligence

"Throughout the centuries, the book has gone through days of great respect and, unfortunately, through the horrors of hatred and wars, when it was destroyed by non-humans. It is impossible to write a book about the long and incredible history of the existence of books and literature. In just one of our lifetimes, during the last and this century, an incredible revolution has occurred in the life of books and literature - sophisticated electronic and digital technology has appeared. The highlight is the fact that more and more works, if you can call it that, are written with the help of artificial intelligence. Soon, we may have literary evenings dedicated to Mr. Robot XY. Will it really happen? Maybe just as an absurd joke, said the classic of Serbian dramatic literature, academician, in a ceremonial speech in honor of the opening of the 20th Podgorica Book and Education Fair. Dusan Kovačević.

He recalled the fear of the disappearance of classical art, created with the eye, soul and hand of man, which existed even when television appeared.

"Back then, it was said that this was the end of film and art in the darkness of cinema. Of course, that did not happen."

As for the current life of books and the fate of bound stories, I will mention a few facts related to the Library of Congress in America, the largest library in the world, which has 25 million books written in 470 languages. And that's not all. Every day, 25.000 new book titles arrive at the Library of Congress as an offer. So much for the crisis of books and literature," emphasized Academician Kovačević.

"Dear friends, I wish you all the best in the company of old and new books, which have always been our best, most faithful and certainly most reliable friends," said Kovačević, concluding his speech.

Academician Kovačević will be promoting his book Selected Works tonight at 6:30 PM, moderated by the writer and publisher. Gojko Božović.

The fair was officially opened by the Minister of Culture and Media. Tamara Vujović, before which the Minister of Education addressed the attendees Anđela Jakšić Stojanović, President of the Podgorica Municipal Council Jelena Bojović Borovinić, deputy mayor Nađa Ljiljanić, and owner of the publishing house Nova knjiga, founder and organizer of the fair, Predrag Uljarević.

The event was attended by the President of the State and the Deputy Prime Minister. Jakov Milatovic i Aleksa Becic, ambassadors, media representatives...

This year's anniversary edition of the Podgorica Book and Education Fair, which is being held at TC BIG FASHION from 11 to 17 May under the slogan "Let's build culture", brings dozens of famous domestic and foreign authors, more than 100 exhibitors and over 100.000 titles with great fair discounts. During the seven days, the Fair will once again confirm why it represents one of the most important and most visited cultural events in Montenegro. As every year, this year the Fair brings famous domestic, regional and international names.