Censorship of Literature in Post-War Poland

The book "Censorship of Literature in Post-War Poland in the Light of Confidential Bulletins for Censors from 1945 to 1956" intricately examines the processes of literary censorship in Poland following World War II. This investigation relies on previously undisclosed Bulletins, which were directed to the officials of the main censorship office, to paint a detailed picture of those practices during the first decade after the war.

In its initial section, the book delves into understanding what these Confidential Bulletins were, offering a foundational overview of their purpose, structure, and contents. This segment culminates with a well-rounded definition of these vital resources used by the censorship office.

The subsequent part of the book unfolds an analysis of the literary scene as depicted within these Bulletins from 1945 to 1956. It highlights how these publications served as a practical guide for executing censorship, frequently detailing recently published works or those that failed to meet the censor's standards.

This work stands out for its pioneering focus on the role played by the Bulletins within censorship studies, striving to provide a comprehensive account of their significance. The commendable effort of the author, especially under challenging circumstances, is duly recognized by Dr. John M. Bates from the University of Glasgow.

For international readers, this publication offers an intriguing perspective into the mechanisms of control in Poland during the Stalinist era, shedding light on the broader historical and literary context of that time, as noted by Prof. Kamila Kamińska-Chełminiak of the University of Warsaw.

Prof. Sławomir Buryła from the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn acknowledges the book's rich source material and its high intellectual merit. Its publication in English is poised to advance research on communist censorship across Central and Eastern Europe, setting the stage for comparative studies.