El principe constante? Jan Lechoń and politics (after 1939)

Abstract

The article focusses on Jan Lechoń’s political views after he emigrated to New York. These opinions could be found in literary works, as well as in letters and the Journal. The most important elements of political views of the author of Silver and black were: blatant anticommunism, critical assessment of the Polish emigration government, openly expressed admiration for America and nostalgia towards the interbellum (idealizing Józef Piłsudski). His views had a significant influence on his personal life, as exemplified by his politically motivated ending of his long-lasting friendship with Julian Tuwim. One of the most important issues is where to classify Lechoń’s often expressed opposition towards the political changes in Poland among the reasons for his suicide.