Croatian writer Vedrana Rudan dies at 77; remembered as 'brave woman'

Vedrana Rudan, a celebrated Croatian writer, columnist, and activist known for her sharp wit and fearless commentary, has passed away at the age of 77. Her death was announced on her official profile, stating, "Vedrana has gone to the area without signal," a phrase she previously used as a metaphor for death.

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VEDRANA has gone to the area without signal.

Rudan had been publicly battling bile duct cancer in recent years, openly discussing her illness. Her characteristic directness and willingness to confront difficult topics defined her public persona and literary work. The announcement of her passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the cultural and public sphere in Croatia and the region.

Many prominent figures have shared their memories and reflections on Rudan's impact. Miljenko Jergović described her as "a wildly brave woman" whose departure significantly increased the "index of cowardice" in Croatia. He acknowledged their complex relationship, noting they were never on speaking terms but that her work was important and significant, characterized by her ability to "swear with style."

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Vedrana Rudan was a wildly brave woman. With her departure, the index of cowardice in Croatia has flown into the sky.

Ida Prester echoed these sentiments, calling Rudan a "rarely brave and powerful woman" who was unmatched in verbal exchanges. Prester highlighted Rudan's sharp intellect and her willingness to speak truths plainly, even when it seemed excessive. She emphasized that Rudan's voice was "sincere, unwrapped by cellophane, and immensely important," and that she would be missed, especially in the current climate where few have the courage to "go straight into the fray, risk everything and call things by their real name."

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And yes, she swore with style! And she loved this world.

Publicist and writer Anđelo Jurkas offered a more colloquial yet equally poignant farewell, reflecting Rudan's own often provocative language. He described her as a woman with a "big brain and much bigger balls" than many men, who consistently challenged societal norms and hypocrisy. Jurkas noted her significant media presence, including notable appearances on television talk shows and interviews, where she demonstrated her linguistic prowess and willingness to engage in public debate.

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Dear Vedrana. A rarely brave and powerful woman. Nobody could get her in a verbal confrontation, absolutely nobody.