Muž na pokraji vzplanutí - Haiku z diáře 2017-2018 – Hájíček Jiří (2022)

Successful writer Jiří Hájíček (born 1967) is well-established in Czech literature primarily as an author of short stories and novels. However, he once started with poetry. In recent years, he has occasionally turned to poetry, specifically in the form of haiku, from which the Host publishing house presents this intimate selection titled Man on the Brink of Ignition. "I write the first words of the day on a piece of paper. Some people solve sudoku in the morning to warm up their brains; I write haiku. The mind is strangely clouded and yet agitated in the morning. It tends to be stingy with words, and that is good for such writing," the author says about his work. Observations and snapshots from life. Miniatures, fragments of days and stories, small impressions, atmospheres. Verses added to notes about train departures and readings, notes on "departures in love." Life concentrated in sharply cut images, "Hájíček differently," yet recognizable in its basic chords. Civil, unpretentious poetry, with deep personal assurance. This small, bibliophile-oriented volume with colorful illustrations by academic painter Matěj Lipavský (born 1985), elegantly designed by graphic artist Lucie Zajíčková, may appeal not only to the author's fans but also to a number of readers who typically do not seek out this genre.