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Vedrana RudanCroatian writer and journalist
Country:
 Croatia |
Content:
- Vedrana Rudan: Fiery Croatian Writer and Journalist
- Independence from Kosovo
- "Ear, Throat, Knife": A Provocative Novel
- "Sentimental Books Are Trash"
- Self-Love and Relationships
- Child Rearing and Trust
- "Men are to Be Used"
- Epilogue: A Complex Family
Vedrana Rudan: Fiery Croatian Writer and Journalist
In the midst of the "Books of Russia" fair at the VVC, Croatian writer and journalist Vedrana Rudan stood out as a bold and controversial guest. Her newly translated novel, "Ear, Throat, Knife," has sparked discussions about independence, both from men and political entities.
Independence from Kosovo
Rudan holds an outspoken stance on the separation of Kosovo from Serbia. "I'm certain that Kosovo has not become an independent republic—it has become America," she insists. Comparing President George W. Bush to a 21st-century Hitler, Rudan fears his military presence in Kosovo threatens its independence.
While some argue that Kosovo's separation sets a precedent for other regions, Rudan remains skeptical of precedents. "I dislike precedents. China and Taiwan already created that," she states.
"Ear, Throat, Knife": A Provocative Novel
Rudan's novel "Ear, Throat, Knife" has been met with both shock and admiration. The story, narrated by an angry and disillusioned fifty-year-old woman, is laced with vulgarity and raw emotion.
"This is not a shocking book," Rudan argues. "It's life. And life is shocking." She believes that her protagonist's foul language reflects the language of victims, who lack the power to change their circumstances.
"Sentimental Books Are Trash"
Rudan criticizes sentimental and superficial literature, which she believes panders to readers' tastes and manipulates them emotionally. "Sentimental books are trash," she asserts. "I respect my readers and present them with the truth about life."
Self-Love and Relationships
Rudan's philosophy extends to her personal life as well. She admits to being a strong individual with little regard for the opinions of others. "I am my own god and party," she declares.
Despite her unconventional views on relationships, Rudan stresses the importance of self-love. "I need them to love me," she says of her family, "but I love myself most." She believes that only by loving oneself can one earn the love of others.
Child Rearing and Trust
Rudan's upbringing has influenced her approach to parenting. She raised her children with a healthy distrust of others, viewing humanity as inherently predatory. While some may question the emotional toll this approach takes, Rudan maintains that "complete trust is suicide."
"Men are to Be Used"
Rudan's views on men are equally controversial. "Men are not to be loved—they are to be used," she states firmly. She advises women to exploit their physical attractiveness to their advantage.
Epilogue: A Complex Family
The novel's enigmatic epigraph, dedicating it to a "mother who is a mother, a husband who is not a husband, children who are not children," has raised eyebrows. Rudan explains that her husband's son from a previous marriage falls into the category of "not a husband," while her own children are not the "brats" that many children become.
