Vidrić

A monograph dedicated to the life and poetic work of Vladimir Vidrić (1875–1909), one of the most gifted and tragic poets of Croatian modernity. Antun Barac (1894–1955), a distinguished literary historian and critic, wrote this study with characteristic scientific meticulousness, but also a subtle sensitivity to poetic expression.

The study analyzes Vidrić's short but intense life, his poetry imbued with melancholy, hedonism, antique motifs and deep personal pain. Barac particularly emphasizes Vidrić's formal refinement, the musicality of his verse and his place in Croatian literature between symbolism and impressionism.

The work is not only a biography, but also a thorough interpretation of Vidrić's lyrics – from famous poems such as Dva levit, Pjesma, Jesenska pjesma to lesser-known fragments. Barac lucidly connects the poet's fate (illness, alcohol, early death) with his poetic world, creating a balanced and still respected study.

The 1940 edition of Matica hrvatska is one of the most important monographs on Vidrić in Croatian literary historiography. The style is clear, scholarly, yet accessible, which is typical of Barac's writing style – a combination of erudition and readability.