Literature as a European mother tongue: In our series “One is a CROWD”, we introduce you to authors from all over Europe who will be involved in the CROWD omnibus reading tour, taking place from May to July 2016, featuring 100 authors who will be travelling through 15 European countries. We asked them three questions about text production, reception and mediation. In case you were wondering what a literary activist in Mostar looks like, meet Marko Tomaš!

A text unity lies not in its origins, but in its destination or audience. What does that mean to you? Can a text be original?

Well, we can broaden the question to discuss if any artwork can be considered an original, for your artistic interpretation can indeed be original. I have a strong connection to the audience, general public and readers of my books. Literature should communicate – it can never be a one way street.

Have you ever participated in collaborative author/reader projects? If so, what do you find interesting about them?

Yes, I have participated in many literature festivals and I like that kind of exchange among authors and the public. It is important to see how other people react to your work in an environment which is not as intimate as when you read the book or text by yourself.

What is your favorite literary spot? (literary venue, bar, meeting spot etc.)

I can’t say I have a favourite venue. But I can perhaps recommend Sanje festival in Medana and Voix vives de Mediteranée which is taking place in Sète this year. I would also recommend Krokodil festival in Belgrade.

Photo © Milena Gosevski