How 2 Break A Heart In 7 Days – that is the name of the first Bulgarian video poetry book. The collection of poems of journalist and writer Ivo Todorov is a bilingual edition – it is written in Bulgarian and English. According to the author poetry in the 21st century can and should not only be read, but also viewed. “Why should only songs have their videos? Poetry can also be picturized,” he claims. In fact the edition is a new thing not only in Bulgaria.

“This is the first video book ever. He said he checked it online – there hadn’t been such an edition worldwide" poetess Margarita Petkova, the book’s presenter at its premiere, said for Radio Bulgaria. "I had been familiar for a long time with this idea of Ivo Todorov’s, I used to edit his first book of verse – A Tea of Memories. That is how we got connected by our common work, ideas and performances. That is why I dare talk to the wide public on this successful project of the author. Each of the seven poems included in the book is actually a video with the participation of three talented young actors. The author reads his own verses, which adds further valuable to the book for those, who want to have it, to see and hear it. I do think the project is very successful. The poems have been translated to English by prominent translator Zlatna Kostova – that can also recommend the book.”

Ivo Todorov has written a total of six books – collections of poetry and short stories, he has written a novel as well. As to the subject of eternal love: “Ivo writes in such a manner that most people can recognize their own feelings in his poems”,  Margarita Petkova further says.

The book is poetry to be watched. Does it contribute to the atmosphere, to the feeling?

“We can’t argue that anything visualized could cause a broader range of reactions. However, the text of the book can be found with each CD. So, one can read and watch simultaneously,” the poetess points out. “Ivo has directed his own videos, in a perfect manner, in tune to the rules of the art of theater and film. Each video is a small impression, an addition to the text and not its illustration.”

Now finally: Margarita Petkova’s wish: “May love break, but also revive our hearts.”

We will only add that the video book will have its premiere in Brussels on 11 June too. It will also pay a visit to London, where some of the filming processes took place.

English version: Zhivko Stanchev