The Balkan Express: Fragments from the Other Side of the War

by Slavenka Drakulić

The Balkan Express: Fragments from the Other Side of the War by Slavenka Drakulić is a powerfully poignant anthology collection of essays that dare to look deep within-into the human dimensions of the Yugoslav Wars of the 1990s. Drakulić, a distinguished Croatian journalist and writer, offers a nuanced and introspective examination of the war's impact on daily life and interpersonal relationships.

Drawing from her personal experiences and observations; Drakulić articulates the profound disruptions caused by the conflict. She explores how the war transformed ordinary existence, severing the fabric of community and turning neighbors into adversaries. Her essays provide a vivid portrayal of the psychological and emotional toll on individuals whilst capturing the essence of life amidst chaos and violence.

Drakulić's narrative is both intimate and reflective, shedding light on the complexities of identity and the pervasive sense of loss that permeated the region.

Her work transcends mere reportage, offering a deeply humanistic perspective that underscores the resilience and vulnerability of those caught in the throes of war.