A long-awaited work by the legendary Polish journalist Ryszard Kapuściński, titled The Hourglass, has finally been released in Poland—nearly 40 years after it was first submitted and blocked by

communist-era censorship. The publication comes 17 years after Kapuściński’s death, marking a poignant moment in the celebration of his literary and journalistic legacy.

In 1984, Kapuściński had prepared The Hourglass, a collection of short writings that includes reflections, poems, and quotes. The book, which was shelved by the authorities, reveals the journalist as a visionary, whose thoughts on communication and information remain remarkably relevant today. According to Michał Nogaś from Polish Radio, Kapuściński’s foresight into the growing power of information in shaping societies is striking, especially in today’s world.

This release also coincides with the 80th anniversary of the Czytelnik Publishing Cooperative, which had previously published many of Kapuściński’s major works. The Hourglass will be officially launched on October 23, 2024, with pre-orders available starting Friday, October 18.

Renowned for his incisive reporting on global events, particularly in Africa and Latin America, Kapuściński’s works such as The Emperor and Shah of Shahs have earned international recognition, blending storytelling with factual reporting in a style now synonymous with literary journalism. His legacy continues to influence journalists around the world, even 17 years after his passing in 2007. Photo by  Mariusz Kubik, Wikimedia commons.