TV Presentation of Narine Abgaryan’s “To Live” Short Story Collection (video)

Abgaryan describes “To Live” as a blend of novel and short stories, with recurring characters weaving a thread through each tale. “If we can enjoy success alone, we need relatives in times of misfortune,” she says. 

“This book is about Artsakh, it takes place in the city of Berd. I don’t mention that explicitly in the book, but everyone who reads it abroad assumes it’s about Artsakh.”

Many of the book’s characters are drawn from real life, and some of the stories reflect the author’s own experiences. 

“Berd was destroyed after the first war. The strength people had during the war often collapsed afterward. Young, reckless people were everywhere. The book is about those who endured war, betrayal, loss, just like the people of Artsakh today, who are still trying to survive,” she shared.

Abgaryan believes that even in tragedy, people reinterpret life, and that survival is itself a message. 

“At this moment, everything feels very painful and brutal. But people from Berd are tough, they call them ‘Berd donkeys.’ That toughness carries a will to live. The people of Artsakh are just as strong.”

The central message of “To Live” is exactly that, to keep living. Abgaryan’s characters teach us that even in the darkest moments, life must go on. She believes that the Armenian people will rise again, as they always have.

The main partner of the book is ARGO Realty, Armenia’s leading real estate company. Hovhannes Vardanyan, the company’s public relations officer, emphasized that while providing homes is central to their mission, supporting literature and culture is just as important, especially post-war.

“For 16 years, ARGO Realty has supported families, organized sponsorships and seminars, and prioritized education and literature. Supporting the publication of “To Live” is part of our commitment to preserving and promoting Armenian voices. Narine Abgaryan is a beloved author, and this collection carries a message our people need to hear right now.”

The presentation of “To Live” will take place on June 6 at 7:00 PM, at the Zangak bookstore. Entry is free, and the book will be available for purchase at a special discount during the event.