Under the Sign of Parody and the Grotesque (Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz, Bruno Schulz, Witold Gombrowicz)

Abstract

The article considers the question of what common features connect three remarkable twentieth-century Polish writers – Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz, Bruno Schulz, and Witold Gombrowicz – an irresistible suggestion presents itself. All three writers, to a greater or lesser extent and in personally specifi c ways, represent the parodic and grotesque trends in contemporary Polish literature, and are its most innovative and prominent implementers. Neither different birthdates nor differences that filled their biographies can negate the collectivity of these authors. Not even their professing often different philosophies, artistic attitudes, or styles, which define their individuality and originality, is enough to terminate their union. It is uncommon in history when diversity and collectivity, which brings together as much as pushes apart authors, creates such a colorful and suggestive constellation.