Iz ljubavi

Zofija Kossak-Szczucka (1889–1968), a prominent Polish Catholic writer, author of historical novels (Krzyżowcy, Bez oręża) and participant in the resistance in World War II (co-founder of Żegota), wrote Z miłości shortly after a personal tragedy (the death of her son). The work was published in 1925/1926 and translated into Croatian as Iz ljubavi (Zagreb, 1931).

The novel is a fictionalized biography of St. Stanisław Kostka (1550–1568), a Polish nobleman and Jesuit, patron of youth. Kossak vividly depicts the 16th century – noble life in Poland, education in Vienna, religious conflicts and spiritual searches. Young Staszek, the son of an influential castellan, feels a strong spiritual calling. Despite the resistance of his family (especially his brother Paul), he runs away from home, crosses the Alps and arrives in Rome, where he enters the novitiate of the Society of Jesus. He dies young, at the age of 18, but his example of holiness remains enduring.

The book is written in a simple, warm style intended for young people, with an emphasis on inner struggle, courage, renunciation and pure love for God. The author emphasizes that it was this love that gave the boy the strength to give up wealth, security and family plans. The work exudes a Catholic spirit, idealizes holiness and serves as a moral model.

In Kossak's oeuvre, this is one of the earlier and lesser-known works, closer to hagiography than to great epic novels. In the Croatian context, it was part of popular Catholic fiction of the interwar period. Today it is read as an inspiring story of youthful idealism and fidelity to one's calling, and as a successful literary treatment of the life of a saint.