Was bleibt: das Vertrauen in die Sprache. Franz Hodjaks neue Gedichte

Abstract This paper examines the persistent evolution of themes and motifs in Franz Hodjak‘s poetry since his literary beginnings, focusing on his latest collection of poems. Hodjak‘s recent works delve into familiar themes such as freedom, existential emptiness, and the absence-defined concepts of identity, homeland, illusions, and freedom. Additionally, these poems address core life aspects like transience, farewell, hope, love, grief, dreams, and happiness. While these themes echo in his earlier works, Hodjak‘s unflinching perspective unveils the interconnectedness and impermanence of the world. The focus of this analysis lies in the enduring trust in language that permeates Hodjak‘s work.