Poland
Foreign Book
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It is not uncommon to read books written by actors, although rarely are they actually written by them and ghost-writing is rather common. But this is the exception that proves the rule: Maciej Stuhr’s first book is very much his own. In a Distorting Mirror (W krzywym zwierciadle) is a collection of essays Stuhr has been writing in his own column in a monthly magazine called Zwierciadlo (Mirror) for more than three years. The column has been hugely popular, since its author is a famous actor in Poland, son of Jerzy Stuhr, one Poland’s most beloved actors. But the “Young Stuhr,” as he is often called here, has long ago begun making his own decisions about his career. He started off as a comedian (his stand-up performances are still frequently seen on YouTube) and later studied psychology, but it was not long before he took his first roles in major Polish motion pictures (Boys Don’t Cry, The Wedding, 33 Scenes of Life, and Aftermath).

"In a Distorting Mirror is a lightweight read, but it should not be mistaken for an insignificant literary confession."

It must have been rather tough to live under the shadow of his own father, and this sentiment sometimes shines through in what he writes today, but Stuhr – the writer – is principally a representative of his own generation of thirty-somethings. Growing up in communist Poland in the home of a member of Krakow’s intelligentsia, and observing changes that simultaneously tormented and helped the country, surely left a mark on who Maciej Stuhr is today. The author frequently recalls those days with affection but also resentment. A true paradox.

In a Distorting Mirror is a lightweight read, but it should not be mistaken for an insignificant literary confession. Stuhr is a great observer, a true voyeur of everyday life and ordinary people living in Poland. He expresses his worldview without hesitation, but with great care and reverence for every word he writes. Not without reason was he named “Master of the Polish Language” a couple years back, an honorable title awarded to famous people who pay particular attention to their mother tongue. The essays assembled in this collection should not leave anyone indifferent. They are very real and true to the core, each brings a different story to attention, and all are carefully thought-out. Although the author himself has admitted on numerous occasions that writing down one good thought is a rather painful and time-consuming task, it is also very rewarding. As it must also be to see long lines at book-signing events after so much hard work.

"This book is written by someone who continues to be amazed at everything around him."

In a Distorting Mirror is not just a collection of thoughts, but a coherent and comprehensive report of the quirks, oddities, and perks of being a middle-aged dad in a still developing country. The language is alive, and so are the stories Stuhr tells. A truly enjoyable piece of modern literature, short in form and rich in meaning. Highly recommended for all those who are curious about how Poland used to be, how it is now, and how it will be. It is written by someone who continues to be amazed at everything around him. Let him amaze you too.