On July 28, 1998, Zbigniew Herbert, a towering figure in 20th-century Polish poetry, passed away. Known for his crystalline prose and profound insights, Herbert’s work, including masterpieces like “Mr. Cogito” and “Report from the Besieged City,” left an indelible mark on literature. His biographer, Andrzej Franaszek, praised Herbert’s ability to transcend reality through his writing.
In the final year of his life, Herbert was frequently hospitalized due to severe asthma. Despite medical advice, he continued to smoke, often humorously recounting his covert smoking habits in letters to friends. Smoking, as Franaszek noted, became a symbol of freedom for Herbert, a small act of defiance when he could no longer walk.
Herbert’s health took a dire turn in the autumn of 1977 when he nearly succumbed to pneumonia, losing his voice for several months. His recovery was nothing short of miraculous. He regained his speech and even participated in a radio interview with Roman Borowska, his strained voice reflecting his unwavering resolve to overcome physical limitations.
Beyond his literary achievements, Herbert was also a passionate political activist. He championed cultural freedom and spoke out against oppressive regimes. His outspoken nature led to notable public disputes, including a clash with fellow poet Czesław Miłosz and criticism of some writers’ communist affiliations.
"The loss of memory by a nation is also a loss of its conscience," wrote Zbigniew Herbert – Polish poet & essayist. He died #OTD in 1998. pic.twitter.com/xkfPlWByNC
— Poland.pl (@Poland) July 28, 2017
Zbigniew Herbert’s legacy endures, celebrated for both his literary genius and his unyielding spirit in the face of adversity.