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Timely in Timeless, Eternal in temporal

A comparative study of literary work of Nikola Šop and Gregor Strniša, by dr. Eva Premk Bogataj, 2017

In "Timely in Timeless, Eternal in Temporal," the author embarks on a captivating journey into the depths of literary perception with Croatian-Bosnian author Nikola Šop and Slovenian author Gregor Strniša as their guides. Their comparative study examines how these two literary giants perceive the intricate relationship between finitude and infinity, timelessness and time within their works.


What sets this exploration apart is its departure from conventional literary analysis. The author delves into the multidimensional complexities of Šop's and Strniša's writings, revealing symbolic, multilayered, and intertextual networks of meaning. It becomes evident that their texts cannot be fully grasped through traditional literary-historical lenses alone.


Central to the study is the authors' hypothesis concerning the nuanced perception of finitude and infinity shared by both Šop and Strniša. Through meticulous analysis, they demonstrate how these themes transcend mere quantitative interpretations, delving into the qualitative realms of the Whole, Totality, and the Absolute.


The author adopts the theoretical framework of the Perennialist School, a refreshing approach that sheds new light on the timeless questions of humanity within the context of various world traditions. Her study challenges the boundaries of literary discourse, introducing a paradigm shift in the understanding of traditional literary works.


Divided into four insightful chapters, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of Šop's and Strniša's literary landscapes. From the overview of their lives and critical receptions to the theoretical principles of the Perennialist School, each chapter uncovers hidden layers of meaning within their texts.


The study culminates in a profound revelation: the direct connection between the themes of finitude and infinity in Šop's and Strniša's works and the human aspiration for transcendence. Through the lens of the Perennialist School, the authors unveil a holistic interpretation of their writings, enriching our understanding of the human condition.


In conclusion, "Timely in Timeless, Eternal in Temporal" is a groundbreaking contribution to comparative literary history. By seamlessly integrating the discourse of the Perennialist School into Slovenian and Croatian-Bosnian literary studies, the author illuminate the intricate tapestry of Šop's and Strniša's poetry, inviting readers to embark on a transformative literary odyssey.

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