"The Last Games of the Universe," by Dragan M. Radonjić, is a profoundly significant collection of poems, essays, and philosophical reflections. This work, which also includes a heartfelt love letter as an added touch, celebrates Love, God, and Orthodoxy, representing a holy trinity that forms the core of this ambitious and deeply inspired collection. It stands as a rare and surprising creation in the world we inhabit, its very existence an unexpected marvel that enhances its impact.
Despite the often overwhelming discouragement from society,
there remain individuals of great integrity, willing and capable of enduring
trials to be true poets. Dragan M. Radonjić from Ivanjica (or any other
geographical location—he is, after all, a "Man of the Planet") is
undoubtedly such a poet. From the opening whirlpool of passionate love poems
free of sentimentality to contemporary verses that dissect modern
reality—globalism, IT and the internet, capitalism, alienation, and the loss of
empathy—Radonjić’s unique rhyme and rhythm, combined with his poetic narrative,
create a powerful contrast. His poetic persona fearlessly confronts these
issues with a pen that serves as a sharp bayonet, delivering both warm,
heart-filled notes of love (particularly for women, a dominant theme in the
book) and cutting critiques of today's society.
Radonjić's literary imprint, crafted over decades and published now, offers a razor-sharp answer to what poetry represents in our so-called modern era. His poetry is a refuge, a corner of purity and sincerity, a guiding force, and a valve for releasing the pressure exerted by our harsh reality. It is delightful to encounter a meticulously crafted collection like "The Last Games of the Universe," comprising an incredible 385 poems, each one maintaining the highest standard, holding the reader's attention with unwavering quality.
Experiencing Radonjić’s blend of songwriting, poetic love
letters, and philosophical musings results in a profoundly metaphysical and
transcendental experience. His poetry causes an eruptive, esoteric growth
within the reader, assuming they can perceive, understand, and grasp the
material world and modernity we all navigate. This is a unique precedent and a
reason for praise, as I highlight in this review.
Dragan Radonjić, a refined figure of modern Serbian
literature, is a solitary gem—a diamond that needs no further polishing. He
emerges from his creative solitude to the public eye, strong and
uncompromising, delivering words that pierce through the superficiality of mass
media and middle-class pretension. If you are not ready for the powerful
literary achievements of this new Serbian literary guard, you risk being left
out of the game.
Radonjić's poetry, communicative and easily resonant with
readers, provides a clear, dynamic voice. He is unafraid, strong, and
discerning, ever-present for his loved ones. He embodies a sentry of light, a
soldier of eternity, and a guardian of faith. Radonjić’s poetry is both a
powerful cry for freedom and a commitment to the values that elitism often
overlooks.
In summary, "The Last Games of the Universe" and
Dragan Radonjić stand as the first in a brilliant series of triumphs of spirit,
soul, and belief in humanity. This is not just an excellent work; it is a
celebration of victory, a glorification of the forgotten good in people,
handled with care and elegance by Radonjić’s red pen, echoing the sanctity of
Orthodox tradition.
Simply put—bravo! It is more accurate to say—excellent! If
there is such a thing as perfection, then it is fitting to say—this is the most
insightful and sincere poetry I have read in decades!
Written by: Milan B. Popović, Literary Critic, Music CD
Reviewer, Poet, Columnist, and Publicist from Belgrade.