Famous Serbian Writers

Ivo Andrić was a Yugoslav novelist, poet, and short story writer who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1961. He worked in the diplomatic service of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, serving as Yugoslavia's ambassador to Germany. During World War II, he lived in German-occupied Belgrade and wrote significant works. After the war, Andrić held ceremonial posts in communist Yugoslavia. His writings, focusing on life in Bosnia under Ottoman rule, gained international recognition and were translated into multiple languages.

Stefan Lazarević was a Serbian ruler who served as prince and despot. He was a skilled diplomat, legislator, and military leader, known for his bravery and strategic prowess. Stefan was a patron of the arts, poet, and member of the Order of the Dragon. He strengthened Serbia politically, economically, culturally, and militarily, introducing modern battle tactics, firearms, and knightly tournaments. His reign saw advancements in mining, architecture, and the arts, laying the foundation for the Renaissance in Serbian lands.

Olivera Ćirković is a multi-talented individual with a diverse professional background. She is known for her work as a writer, painter, former professional basketball player, and administrator. Additionally, Ćirković was involved in criminal activities as a member of the international jewel thief network Pink Panthers. Her varied career path showcases her range of skills and experiences across different fields, from sports to the arts, and even criminal activities.

John Simon was an American writer and literary, theater, and film critic known for his sardonic and negative reviews. He served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II and studied at Harvard University before starting his career in arts criticism in the 1950s. Simon held a 36-year tenure as a theater critic for New York magazine and later became a blogger. His controversial writing style, characterized by harsh remarks and few positive reviews, often led to criticism and confrontations with artists.

Dobrica Ćosić was a prominent Yugoslav and Serbian figure known for his contributions as a politician, writer, and political theorist. He was a highly acclaimed author, receiving prestigious awards for his literary works, which have been translated into numerous languages. Ćosić served as the first President of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, making a significant impact on modern Serbian politics and the national revival movement. His leadership and influence continue to be a subject of admiration and debate among supporters and critics alike.

Charles Simic, a Serbian American poet, was a prominent figure in the world of poetry. He served as the co-poetry editor of the Paris Review and received accolades such as the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1990 for his work "The World Doesn't End." He was also a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in 1986 and 1987 for his collections of poems. In 2007, he was appointed as the fifteenth Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress, solidifying his impact on the literary community.

Danilo Kiš was a prominent Yugoslav and Serbian novelist, short story writer, essayist, and translator. He is best known for his works such as Hourglass, A Tomb for Boris Davidovich, and The Encyclopedia of the Dead. Kiš was known for his literary craftsmanship and ability to blend elements of fiction and reality in his writing. He was highly regarded for his exploration of complex themes such as identity, memory, and history, and his works continue to be celebrated for their artistic and intellectual depth.

Nadja Regin was a Serbian actress who began her career in Yugoslav films in the late 1940s before gaining international recognition in the 1950s. She appeared in various British television series in the 1960s and notably had roles in popular shows like Danger Man, Maigret, The Benny Hill Show, and The Saint. Regin was known for her appearances in two James Bond movies, playing significant roles in From Russia with Love and making a smaller appearance in the pre-credit sequence of Goldfinger.

Steve Tesich was a prominent Serbian-American screenwriter, playwright, and novelist. He achieved widespread recognition for his work in the entertainment industry, notably winning the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 1979 for the film Breaking Away. Tesich's talent and creativity were evident in his diverse body of work, which included screenplays, plays, and novels. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the world of cinema and theater, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and fellow artists alike.

Lazar "Laza" Ristovski is a versatile Serbian professional with extensive experience in the entertainment industry. He is renowned for his work as an actor, director, producer, and writer. Throughout his career, he has made significant contributions to the stage, appearing in numerous productions, as well as on screen, starring in a wide range of films and TV series. Ristovski has showcased his talent in lead roles, garnering recognition for his performances. Additionally, he briefly served as a member of the National Assembly, showcasing his diverse skill set.

Tena Štivičić is a prominent Croatian playwright and screenwriter known for her impactful storytelling. She gained international recognition for her work, winning the prestigious Susan Smith Blackburn Prize in 2014-2015. With a career focused on creating thought-provoking narratives, Štivičić has contributed significantly to the world of theatre and film. Her unique voice and ability to delve into complex themes have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following among audiences worldwide.

Tea Obreht is an accomplished American novelist known for her award-winning debut novel, The Tiger's Wife. In 2011, she won the prestigious Orange Prize for Fiction, solidifying her place in the literary world. Obreht's writing is characterized by a unique blend of folklore, history, and contemporary themes, showcasing her talent for crafting intricate and compelling narratives. Her work has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal readership, establishing her as a prominent figure in contemporary literature.

Branko Ćopić was a Serbian writer known for his poetry, short stories, and novels, particularly for children and young adults. His works, often set during World War II in revolutionary Yugoslavia, utilized humor through ridicule, satire, and irony. Despite facing scrutiny for his satirical stories criticizing social and political issues, Ćopić's popularity allowed him to sustain himself solely through his writings. His literary quality was recognized by being included in school curricula, with some of his works becoming compulsory reading.

Branislav Nušić was a prolific Serbian playwright, satirist, essayist, novelist, journalist, and civil servant. He was a key figure in modern rhetoric in Serbia and is celebrated for his ability to blend humor with social critique in his plays. Nušić's works, including popular comedies like "The Cabinet Minister's Wife" and "A Suspicious Person," vividly depicted Serbian society, particularly the middle class in small towns. Through his writings, Nušić analyzed the social conditions, morality, and mentality of Serbian society during a specific historical period.

Milorad Pavić was a prominent Serbian novelist, poet, short story writer, and literary historian. Throughout his career, he penned a diverse range of works, including poems, short stories, and novels, with his most acclaimed piece being the groundbreaking "Dictionary of the Khazars." This novel, considered ahead of its time, earned him international recognition and solidified his status as a leading literary figure. Pavić's works have been translated into over thirty languages, showcasing his widespread appeal and influence in the literary world. His legacy continues to inspire readers and writers around the globe.

Dositej Obradović was a prolific Serbian writer, biographer, diarist, philosopher, pedagogue, educational reformer, linguist, and polyglot. He served as the first minister of education of Serbia, playing a crucial role in the country's cultural and educational development. Obradović was a prominent figure in the Serbian national and cultural renaissance, advocating for Enlightenment and rationalist ideas. Despite his progressive views, he remained a devoted Serbian patriot and a supporter of the Serbian Orthodox Church.

Desanka Maksimović was a prominent Serbian poet, writer, and translator known for her significant contributions to literature. She began her career by publishing works in various literary journals and gained recognition for her poems in influential publications. Despite facing challenges during World War II, she continued to write and secretly compiled a collection of patriotic poems. Maksimović received numerous honors and awards for her work, including being named a full-fledged member of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts. Her poems often reflected on themes of human mortality and societal issues, making her a respected figure in Yugoslav literary circles.

Jovan Dučić was a prominent Serb poet-diplomat and academic known for his significant contributions to Serbian literature. He gained recognition as one of the most influential Serbian lyricists and modernist poets, with published collections of poetry and literary essays. Dučić also played a role in founding the nationalist organization Narodna Odbrana and was a member of the Serbian Royal Academy. His work, particularly the book "Blago cara Radovana," continues to be celebrated and remembered for its literary significance.

Bogdan Bogdanović was a prominent Serbian and Yugoslav architect, urbanist, and essayist. He taught architecture at the University of Belgrade Faculty of Architecture and served as the dean. Bogdanović wrote extensively on urbanism, focusing on its mythic and symbolic aspects, with his work published in international journals. He was actively involved in politics, initially as a Yugoslav Partisan in World War II and later as the mayor of Belgrade. Notably, Bogdanović gained recognition for his designs of monuments and memorials across Yugoslavia, including the renowned Stone Flower sculpture near Jasenovac concentration camp.

Svetislav Basara is a prominent Serbian writer and columnist known for his diverse literary works. He has made significant contributions to contemporary Serbian literature through his novels, essays, and columns. Basara's writing style is characterized by its experimental nature and insightful commentary on various social and political issues. He has garnered acclaim for his innovative storytelling techniques and sharp wit, establishing himself as a leading figure in the Serbian literary scene. Basara's works have been widely translated and have earned him a loyal readership both in Serbia and abroad.

Vasko Popa was a renowned Yugoslav and Serbian poet of Romanian descent. He is recognized for his significant contributions to modern poetry, particularly in the realm of surrealism and existentialism. Popa's works often explore themes of identity, existence, and the human experience in a unique and thought-provoking manner. Throughout his career, he published numerous collections of poetry and received critical acclaim for his innovative writing style and profound insights. Popa's legacy continues to inspire and influence poets and readers around the world.

Borislav Pekić was a prominent Serbian and Yugoslav writer and political activist. He lived in Belgrade from 1945 until his emigration to London in 1971. Pekić was one of the founding members of the Democratic Party in Serbia. Known as one of the most significant Serbian literary figures of the 20th century, he left a lasting impact on Serbian literature with his works. His professional life was characterized by his literary contributions and his involvement in political activities, reflecting his dedication to both fields.

Eva Ras is a multi-talented Serbian Jewish professional with a successful career in acting, writing, and painting. Known for her versatile skills, she has made notable contributions to the entertainment industry. As an actress, she has delivered captivating performances on stage and screen, showcasing her talent and versatility. In addition to her acting prowess, Eva Ras is also recognized for her writing skills, creating engaging content for various mediums. Her talents extend to painting, where she expresses her creativity through visual artistry.

Matija Bećković is a prominent Serbian poet, writer, and academic known for his significant contributions to literature. Throughout his career, he has established himself as a respected figure in the literary world, with a focus on poetry that resonates with audiences. His works have garnered critical acclaim for their depth, insight, and poetic craftsmanship. Bećković's writings often explore themes of identity, history, and cultural heritage, showcasing his profound understanding of the human experience. As an academic, he has shared his knowledge and passion for literature with students and colleagues alike.

Konstantin "Koča" Popović was a prominent Serbian and Yugoslav politician and military leader. He played a crucial role in the Spanish Civil War as a communist volunteer and later became the Divisional Commander of the First Proletarian Division of the Yugoslav Partisans. Popović was known for his strategic acumen, particularly during the Battle of Sutjeska, where he saved Josip Broz Tito and the resistance movement. He later served as Chief of the General Staff of the Yugoslav People's Army, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Vice President of Yugoslavia. Popović was also a supporter of free-market reforms and a key figure in the Serbian liberal political movement.

Biljana Srbljanović is a highly acclaimed Serbian playwright and university professor. With eleven theater plays and a screenplay for a popular television series to her name, she has made a significant impact in the world of performing arts. Her works have been widely staged across approximately 50 countries, showcasing her talent and creativity on a global scale. Srbljanović is also recognized for her contributions to academia as a part-time lecturer at the University of Arts' Faculty of Dramatic Arts in Belgrade. Throughout her career, she has been honored with numerous prestigious awards, including the Ernst Toller Prize and the Europe Prize Theatrical Realities.

Matija Nenadović, also known as Prota Mateja, was a Serbian archpriest, writer, and politician. He served as the first prime minister of Serbia from 1805 to 1807 and played a significant role in the First Serbian Uprising. Nenadović was a notable leader who contributed to the political and literary spheres of Serbia during his career. His influence and actions during this period left a lasting impact on the history and development of Serbia.

Arsen Dedić was a prominent Croatian singer-songwriter known for his work in chansons and film music. With a successful career as a poet, he was recognized as one of the best-selling poets in former Yugoslavia and Croatia. Dedić's talent and creativity led to numerous awards for his contributions to the music and literary world. He left a lasting impact through his performances, compositions, and poetic works, solidifying his legacy as a respected and influential figure in Croatian culture.

Géza Csáth was a versatile Hungarian professional known for his contributions to various fields. He was a writer, playwright, musician, music critic, psychiatrist, and physician. His diverse talents allowed him to excel in both artistic and scientific pursuits, making significant impacts in each area. Csáth's work as a writer and playwright showcased his creative abilities, while his roles as a music critic, psychiatrist, and physician demonstrated his analytical and medical expertise. His multifaceted career highlighted his unique blend of artistic talent and scientific knowledge.

Dejan Stojanović is a Serbian American poet, writer, essayist, philosopher, businessman, and former journalist. He is known for his poetry characterized by a recognizable system of thought and poetic devices that border on philosophy, reflecting an overall tone of deep introspection. Critic Petar V. Arbutina recognizes Stojanović as belonging to a small and influential group of poets who have significantly shaped Serbian poetry in recent decades. Stojanović's professional life is marked by his multifaceted contributions to literature, philosophy, and business.

Jovan Sterija Popović was a prominent Serbian playwright, poet, lawyer, philosopher, and pedagogue known for his contributions to Serbian literature. He served as a teacher at the Belgrade Higher School and was highly respected by his peers as a leading intellectual of his time. Throughout his career, Sterija excelled in the genre of comic playwrighting, earning recognition as one of the finest in Serbian literary circles. Despite his lifelong residency in the Austrian Empire, he made a significant impact on Serbian cultural and intellectual circles.

Stojan Novaković was a prominent Serbian figure known for his multifaceted career as a politician, historian, diplomat, writer, and literary critic. He served as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Serbia, held various ministerial positions, and led the Progressive Party. Novaković was a skilled diplomat, representing Serbia in key European capitals. As an intellectual, he was involved in numerous academic and literary institutions, such as the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts. He is revered as a pioneer in Serbian historiography and played a significant role in shaping modern Serbian intellectual and political landscapes.

Dimitrije Bjelica is a Serbian chess FIDE Master known for organizing major chess events and serving as an arbiter at prestigious tournaments. Despite his contributions to the chess community, his work has been criticized for containing misspellings and plagiarized content. He is also noted for claiming a record-breaking 56 games of blindfold chess in a simultaneous exhibition. Bjelica has authored multiple books and articles on chess, conducted interviews with prominent players, and has a strong presence in the chess world due to his professional achievements and controversial aspects of his work.

Milena Pavlović-Barili was a prominent Serbian painter and poet known for her contributions to Serbian modernism. She gained recognition as the most notable female artist in the movement, showcasing a unique blend of creativity and talent. Her professional life was characterized by a prolific artistic output, with her works garnering acclaim for their innovative style and deep emotional resonance. Through her paintings and poetry, Pavlović-Barili left a lasting impact on the art world, solidifying her legacy as a visionary artist.

Milovan Milovanović was a prominent Serbian figure known for his contributions as a politician, diplomat, writer, and constitutional lawyer. Serving as the 45th Prime Minister of Serbia, he played a key role in shaping the country's governance and policies. His expertise in constitutional law and diplomacy helped him navigate complex political landscapes and make significant decisions for the benefit of the nation. Milovanović's dedication to public service and his intellectual prowess left a lasting impact on Serbian politics and governance.

Ivan V. Lalic was a renowned poet and writer known for his significant contributions to literature. His professional life was marked by a prolific output of poetry, essays, and translations. Lalic's works often delved into themes of love, nature, and the human experience, showcasing his deep understanding of emotions and relationships. He received critical acclaim for his unique writing style, characterized by rich imagery and profound insights. Lalic's achievements in the literary world solidified his reputation as a respected figure in poetry and garnered him international recognition.

Mirko Kovač was a prolific Yugoslav writer known for his diverse literary output that included novels, short stories, essays, film scripts, TV, and radio plays. Some of his most notable works include the novella Životopis Malvine Trifković, the novels Vrata od utrobe and Grad u zrcalu, the short story collection Ruže za Nives Koen, and the book of essays Europska trulež. He also contributed scripts to successful Yugoslav films such as Handcuffs, Playing Soldiers, and Occupation in 26 Pictures. Mirko Kovač was part of the renowned Belgrade quartet alongside Danilo Kiš, Borislav Pekić, and Filip David.

Tibor Sekelj was a Hungarian polyglot, explorer, author, and 'citizen of the world.' He was a member of the Academy of Esperanto and an honorary member of the World Esperanto Association. Sekelj was known for his novels, travel books, and essays. His children's book, "Kumeŭaŭa, la filo de la ĝangalo," was translated into seventeen languages and won the Best Children's Book award in Japan in 1987. The European Esperanto Union declared 2012 as "The Year of Tibor Sekelj" to commemorate the 100th anniversary of his birth.

Joakim Vujić was a prominent Serbian writer, dramatist, actor, traveler, and polyglot known for his significant contributions to Serbian theatre. He served as the director of the Royal Serbian Theatre in Kragujevac and was recognized as one of the most accomplished dramatists and writers of the 18th century. Vujić's professional life was marked by his influential work in shaping Serbian theatre, earning him the title of the Father of Serbian Theatre.