Magdalena Samozwaniec (1894–1972,) born Magdalena Anna Kossak, was a Polish satirical writer known for her sharp wit and critiques of social norms. Often called the “first lady of Polish satire,” she shaped 20th-century Polish literature through her satirical novels, essays, and parodies.
Born in Kraków, Poland, she was the daughter of painter Wojciech Kossak and sister of poet Maria Pawlikowska-Jasnorzewska. She débuted with Wyjazd mamy do miasta (1908, Mother’s Trip to the City,) and her breakthrough came with Na ustach grzechu (1922, On the Lips of Sin,) a parody of Helena Mniszkówna’s Trędowata.
A pioneer of literary humor, she blended satire with social commentary. Notable works include Wielki szlem (1933, Grand Slam,) Maria i Magdalena (1956, Maria and Magdalena,) a memoir of her sister, Młodość nie radość (1960, Youth Is No Joy,) and Zalotnica niebieska (1973, The Blue Coquette.) She also wrote Tylko dla kobiet (1946, Only for Women,) Tylko dla mężczyzn (1958, Only for Men,) and Tylko dla dziewcząt (1966, Only for Girls,) exploring gender roles and relationships.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Magdalena Samozwaniec
Age and youth have the same appetites but not the same teeth.
—Magdalena Samozwaniec
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