Moj dragi kamik

The poetry collection Moj dragi kamik ("My Dear Stone"), authored by Zdravka Žeželić-Alić and published in 1995, represents a valuable contribution to Croatian dialectal poetry and the preservation of the native Čakavian language. The title—inspired by the symbolism of stone, which in the traditions of the coastal and island regions signifies steadfastness, home, hard work, and survival—hints at the fundamental emotional and thematic framework within which the author’s verses unfold. Through a warm, melodic, and authentic language, the poet reflects on intimate childhood memories, family roots, the daily lives of ordinary people, and the beauty of her native landscape. Her verses radiate a profound nostalgia, a childlike purity, and a deep respect for age-old customs that are gradually fading under the pressure of modern times. For the author, stone is not merely a cold natural element, but a living witness to the past, to hardship, and to a genuine love for her homeland. This collection celebrates regional identity and the richness of the Čakavian idiom, offering readers a moving and aesthetically crafted lyrical experience. The book is a significant work for enthusiasts of dialectal poetry, researchers of Croatian regional literature, and anyone seeking authentic emotions and a connection to their own roots through verse.