Ale Debeljak Book order

Ales Debeljak's poetry reflects the tumultuous history of Slovenia and Europe, addressing themes of war, genocide, and political upheaval. This collection features two complete works, "Unended" and "Below the Waterline," alongside selections from his earlier collections, showcasing his unique voice and diverse styles. Debeljak's writing captures both the traumas and unexpected joys of contemporary life, offering readers a profound exploration of the human experience amidst chaos.

Exploring the complexities of citizenship and national identity, this collection of four interconnected essays delves into the impacts of the violent disintegration of Yugoslavia and the dynamics of EU enlargement. It emphasizes the necessity of national identification while advocating for a balanced approach that resists both rigid nationalism and the superficiality of global citizenship. Through these contrasting movements, the essays challenge readers to rethink their understanding of belonging in a rapidly changing world.

Debeljak critiques postmodern art, contrasting it with the views of theorists like Baudrillard. He argues that art has devolved from its bourgeois liberal roots into a form of mass-produced kitsch, losing its unique identity and becoming a tool for corporate exploitation. Despite retaining formal spaces like museums, art is now integrated into mass society and reflects political resignation rather than an alternative reality. Debeljak suggests that the postmodern art institution cannot escape modernity but is instead destined for a complex and challenging relationship with it.