Polish Poets in English Translation: [Rev. 150 Poems from Poland, Translated by Charles S. Kraszewski, Arouca Press, Waterloo 2025]

Abstract

This article presents a critical review of the English-language anthology 150 Poems from Poland, translated by Charles S. Kraszewski and published by Arouca Press in 2025. The purpose of this review is to analyze the unique structural and thematic features of the volume, alongside an evaluation of its translation quality. The study highlights the anthology’s distinct selection methodology, wherein the participating poets selected their own works and provided accompanying commentaries on their poetic art. Thematically, the review identifies a strong cohesive focus on religious and metaphysical issues, noting a traditionalist approach that generally eschews linguistic experimentation or controversial language. Specific attention is given to the translated works of poets such as Eligiusz Dymowski, Michał Zabłocki, Wojciech Kass, Krzysztof Koehler, and Andrzej Kotański. Methodologically, the author assesses Kraszewski’s translation strategies, observing a tendency toward the exoticization of culturally specific elements. The analysis concludes that the translations maintain a consistently high standard with a low number of interpretation errors. The translator is particularly commended for his successful rendering of rhythm, alliteration, and complex wordplay, especially in the conceptually demanding verses of Zabłocki and the numerical poems of Kotański and Kass. Ultimately, despite minor editorial inconsistencies such as a misleading title, the volume is appraised as a valuable, self-curated presentation of predominantly religious Polish contemporary poetry.