Joanna Skolik – författare

This volume is unconventional in its critical intent since it counters the established criticism that views Joseph Conrad as a predominantly male writer. The volume gathers exclusively female scholars to elaborate upon the feminine in the legacy of an author heretofore mainly associated with exotic places and male sensitivities. It is expected to attract readers by virtue of the unusual perspective that is directed at the feminine rather than the masculine, as the latter has governed the critical discourse since the work of Conrad appeared on the literary market. The scholars are interested in the echoes of Conrad's extensive reading and his experiences that are discernible in his prose and in their resonance in his works, and also the Conradian resonances in the world of literature.

This volume of essays — dedicated to the memory of Professor Zdzisław Najder (1930–2021) — is a collective gift made by Conrad scholars from the United States, Canada and Europe. It comprises seventeen essays in English and twelve in Polish (including several texts containing reminiscences of Professor Najder), a bibliography of Professor Najder’s publications and an index of names. The essays discuss Joseph Conrad’s literary achievements and the ever-relevant questions they continue to raise, as well as drawing attention to Conrad’s European (and especially Polish) cultural roots — a field of research that for many years was of particular interest to Zdzisław Najder, who is shown to have been an unforgettable scholar and colleague — known not only for his thorough research into Conrad’s life and works, but also for his editorial work, his incisive literary criticism, his noble heart, his sensitivity and his friendly and inspiring approach to students.