Nothing compels me but love (B. N.)

The exhibition Nothing compels me but love (B. N.) – Czech literature from Božena Němcová to Radka Denemarková traces the continuity of Czech literature from the 19th century to the present day, through authors whose works transcended social norms, political pressures, and cultural stereotypes. The title of the exhibition is derived from some of the most famous words of the writer Božena Němcová and offers a view of the female world through the eyes of Czech women writers. The individual floors of the exhibition feature quotes that connect Božena Němcová's work with that of her contemporary literary successor Radka Denemarková.

The exhibition opening will take place on Friday, October 2nd, at 6:00 PM. The evening will also include the launch of the novel Chocolate Blood by writer Radka Denemarková, including a discussion with the author.

The exhibition presents four thematic areas that permeate the work of Czech women authors from the 19th century to the present. The first floor is dedicated to the struggle for women's and human rights and engagement in the public sphere. The second captures the search for freedom and one's own voice in everyday life. The third floor opens up themes of female trauma, violence, and cruelty. The last part of the exhibition presents the contemporary multi-layered world, shaped by the diversity of languages, nationalities, cultures, and identities. Authorship team: Michal Stehlík, Lisa Straßberger, Libuše Heczková.

Organized by: Památník národního písemnictví / Muzeum literatury in cooperation with the Moravská zemská knihovna, Filozofická fakulta UK at Haus am Dom.

The exhibition is held as part of the Year of Czech Culture in German-speaking countries, which takes place on the occasion of the Czech Republic's honorary guest appearance at the Frankfurt Book Fair in 2026.