Dezső Kosztolányi was a prominent Hungarian writer, journalist, and translator, known for his diverse contributions across various literary genres, including poetry, essays, and plays. His work was heavily influenced by French symbolism and impressionism, as well as expressionism and psychological realism, allowing him to develop a unique literary style that resonated with the complexities of human experience. Kosztolányi's innovative approach to literature earned him recognition as the father of futurism in Hungarian literature, marking a significant shift in the country's artistic landscape. Among his notable works are the poetry collections 'The Last Days of the Old World' and 'The Book of the Heart,' as well as the acclaimed novel 'Skylark,' which explores themes of longing and existential inquiry. His ability to blend various literary movements with a distinct Hungarian voice not only enriched the literary scene of his time but also laid the groundwork for future generations of writers. Kosztolányi's legacy endures as a testament to the power of literature to reflect and shape cultural identity, making him a key figure in the canon of Hungarian literature.
“When people go away they vanish, turn to nothing, stop being. They live only in memories, haunting the imagination.””
“He was no lover in a worldly sense; the only love he knew was that of divine understanding, of taking a whole life into its depths as if they were his own. From this, the greatest pain, the greatest happiness is born: the hope that we too will one day be understood, strangers will accept our words, our lives, as if they were their own.””
“A drunkard never walks where he can fly.Only the sober believe that the inebriate stagger to and fro. In reality they float on invisible wings and arrive everywhere much earlier than expected.””