Rocznik Komparatystyczny

The volume Zbigniew Herbert und Österreich, edited by Przemysław Chojnowski, discussed and reviewed here, comprises articles by the well-known Herbert researchers that shed light on different aspects of Herbert’s connections to Austria, both to his Austrian friends and representatives of the Austrian literary scene. In addition, some previously unpublished translations of poems by the Polish poet are presented as well as a detailed list of his visits to Austria. In the appendix a rich documentary material has been added, mostly containing unpublished photographs and drawings by Herbert, were made during his visits to Vienna and the Salzkammergut. The reviews and evaluation of the Austrian literary critique complete the volume. Austria plays an important part in Herbert’s international breakthrough as a writer. The poet’s existing and emerging relationships with Austria are documented in detail and comprehensively, which makes the book essential for the reader interested in Herbert in particular or in the modern Polish literature in general.