RECENZIJA: POSLEDNJE IGRE SVEMIRA

"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.