Kosovel's Letters to 'Mirjam' Reveal Poet's Inner World and a Century-Old Friendship

The preserved correspondence between Srečko Kosovel, a prominent poet, and Fanica Obid - Mirjam, then a high school student, anti-fascist, and feminist, offers a profound glimpse into their intertwined lives. The 36 letters vividly weave together themes of literature, politics, personal intimacy, and individual quests.

Published together for the first time in chronological order, the letters span from June 8, 1922, to January 30, 1926. This collection, released in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of Kosovel's death on May 27, 1926, from meningitis, provides a unique opportunity to engage with the young poet's legacy. Editors Nela Malečkar and Aleš Berger note that reading the letters sequentially often illuminates them in a new light, revealing their multifaceted brilliance.

According to the editors, the collection serves as a narrative of a beautiful yet poignant friendship between two exceptional young people from a century ago. The correspondence offers not only insight into Kosovel's genius but also into his inner world and intellectual journey, complementing his well-known lyrical poetry. The letters provide a rare window into the minds and souls of individuals navigating complex personal and political landscapes in the early 20th century.