The Dreamed Silesian Civil War According to Szczepan Twardoch

In an interview with RMF24, writer Szczepan Twardoch discussed his novel "Waldkauz," which explores Silesian folklore and identity. He emphasizes the subversive nature of his writing, aiming to challenge the dominant Polish narrative by incorporating Silesian experiences. The story, set during the Silesian Uprisings, follows detective Wilhelm Pisulla as he searches for his missing son, intertwining elements of local mythology with a critique of national identity. Twardoch's work highlights the complexity of belonging and the conflicts arising from competing national narratives, suggesting that identity cannot be reduced to simple categories. The novel also reflects on the deeper meanings of Heimat, emphasizing personal connections to place beyond political affiliations.