Zbigniew Herbert,Poet-Errant

Abstract

Under the guise of an Arthurian metaphor, this article explores the depiction of violence and totalitarian rule, and the quest for sense and dignity in Herbert’s poetry. Doing justice to his stylistic devices and his creative design, I attempt to understand the ways of epic writing. The echo of Herbert’s work in Poland and other Central and East European countries demonstrates the power of words for people afflicted by a painful history.