Ryszard Kapuscinski: Biography of a Writer

In the first posthumous monograph on Ryszard Kapuściński’s life and work, Beata Nowacka and Zygmunt Ziątek confront the mixed reception of the writer’s use of the Polish concept of literary reportage, located on the border between journalism and artistic prose, and identify this tension as the driving force behind Kapuściński’s legacy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2023
Publisher: McGill-Queen's University Press

Renowned Polish journalist and author Ryszard Kapuściński (1932-2007) was a candidate for the Nobel Prize in Literature. He was highly acclaimed for his relentless pursuit of stories, acquiring extensive knowledge about significant global events during the second half of the 20th century. Kapuściński's writing was characterized by his ability to seamlessly blend the conventions of reportage with the artistry of literature, captivating a diverse audience.

In their posthumous monograph, "Ryszard Kapuściński," Beata Nowacka and Zygmunt Ziątek delve into the reception of Kapuściński's unique approach to journalism. They explore his accounts of the decolonization of Africa, his work in Asia and South America between 1956 and 1981, during which he covered twenty-seven revolutions and coups. The authors argue that Kapuściński's meditations on the profound meanings of these events do not contradict his journalistic endeavors. Instead, they view his first-person involvement as a well-considered conception of eyewitness testimony, enhancing the moral and philosophical depth of his stories.

Nowacka and Ziątek examine the entirety of Kapuściński's accomplishments, highlighting a persistent tension between a strictly journalistic stance and what is known as literary reportage in Poland. This genre lies on the border between journalism and artistic prose. Kapuściński's unwavering desire and dedication to elevate journalistic writing drove the excellence and accessibility that have made his legendary books both controversial and widely celebrated.

Through their comprehensive analysis, Nowacka and Ziątek shed light on Kapuściński's enduring legacy, emphasizing his profound influence on journalism and literature. His ability to bridge the gap between these two disciplines has left an indelible mark on the world of storytelling, inspiring generations of writers and readers alike.

Weight: 712g
Dimension: 236 x 164 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780228014485