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Dražen Kalenić is a Croatian author whose literary work is grounded in philosophical reflection and moral inquiry. Originally trained in technical sciences, he later turned to art, first through photography and design, then fully dedicating himself to literature.
His breakthrough novel Underneath the Baldachin (1995), now reissued in a two-part edition, explores themes of spiritual decline, power, sacrifice, and beauty through allegorical storytelling and layered narration.
Kalenić’s writing is inspired by Western philosophical tradition and classic literature, particularly authors like Robert Musil. His characters confront the tension between good and evil, faith and betrayal, and the search for moral clarity in a complex world.
He lives and works in Zagreb.
Editorial Reviews
• Academician Ranko Marinković:
“You wrote a miracle!"
• Prof. Slavko Harni, National Library of Croatia:
“An original literary voice... Kalenić joins the philosophical investigation of man as a seeker of beauty. His writing rebels against stylistic comfort and explores the moral complexity of human life.”
• Drago Z. Spectar:
“Kalenić offers a layered allegorical novel, exposing the spiritual and moral challenges of our age. The book is read in one breath, and reminds us we are all under the baldachin.”
• J.S. Wagner:
“A literary achievement that should be read worldwide. Underneath the Baldachin is a phoenix-like masterpiece, rising from personal and collective trauma to affirm the essential truth of love and faith.”
• Academician Ante Lib Matić:
“Read the first and last sentence… If they stay with you – as they did with me – you’ll know this story matters.
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