Few Polish authors can claim that their works have been translated into 44 languages. Czesław Miłosz, thanks to his tenure as a literature professor at the University of California, Berkeley, earned significant international acclaim. Interestingly, Polish Radio highlights that Miłosz enjoys more recognition abroad than in his homeland.
A genius whose words continue to inspire
Miłosz emigrated to the United States due to the political repression he faced in Poland under communist rule. This aspect of his life continually surfaced in his work, especially in poems like "You who wronged a simple man" and in his fiery speeches that inspired Poland's Solidarity movement in its struggle against the communist regime.
Miłosz's legacy. From political repression to AI poetry
In recent years - particularly in light of ethical issues surrounding the use of artificial intelligence - his works have found new relevance, as the universal themes in Miłosz's creations resonate surprisingly well with contemporary times.
Miłosz called for the restoration of the original meaning of words whose significance had been distorted. The poet believed that a state monopolizing control over language was a phenomenon of the 20th century.
It’s fascinating to consider how the Polish Nobel laureate might react to a poem generated in the 21st century by artificial intelligence using a small excerpt from his work, specifically the poem "You Who Wronged," translated by Richard Lourie.
Here is the outcome produced by this new kind of "word calculator."
AI and the Dilemma of Free Speech
In the world of machines, where verse is woven from code,
Words become clouds, wandering through the ether,
Is the freedom to speak a wounded sacred thing,
When algorithms decide what truth might tether?
Voices hidden in digital cathedrals,
Are they seeds of truth, or just echoes of praise?
At the edge of words, where thoughts twirl and linger,
Ask yourself: what does it mean to be free in these days?
Miłosz in the rhythm of jazz. His words resonate again
Today, Miłosz would likely have to create a new version of his famous "Song on the End of the World" in response to the revolution that modern technology might bring. He could be inspired by the interpretation of this work by the renowned Polish jazz artist, Aga Zaryan.
On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Polish Nobel laureate's death, Polish Radio's Channel II organized a debate titled "What Remains of Miłosz. His Texts Are Becoming Relevant Again." Read more about it: polskieradio.pl
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