A Journey to Burma by Gustaw Herling-Grudziński: Research Perspectives. A Reconnaissance

Abstract

This article concerns the existing research on the lesser-known, early diary of Gustaw Herling‑Grudziński about his journey to Burma titled A Journey to Burma. In this article, the author distinguishes two main interpretative themes appearing in the most important texts dealing with this work: genealogical issues, and those related to history, politics and social life. By showing the advantages and effects of these texts, the author points to those elements that still have not been thoroughly analysed. Thus, the need for an in-depth reading of this work with the post-colonial perspective taken into account is emphasised, as is a closer look at this text in the context of the whole output of the author of A Journey to Burma and his unique writing style. This article discusses in detail the main problems and potential benefits of each approach.