Jan Beneš (writer)

Jan Beneš (born 26 March 1936, Prague, Czechoslovakia; died 1 June 2007, Prague, Czech Republic) was a Czech writer and screenwriter. He is best known for his novels and short stories, often characterized by a satirical and critical view of life under communist rule in Czechoslovakia.

Beneš emigrated to the United States in 1968 following the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia, but returned to his homeland after the Velvet Revolution in 1989.

His works include novels such as Na místě (In Place), Indolence, and Druhý dech (Second Wind). He also wrote screenplays for films. His writing frequently explored themes of alienation, social commentary, and the absurdity of totalitarian regimes. His work often reflected personal experiences and observations of the political and social climate. Beneš was a significant voice in Czech literature, offering a nuanced perspective on a tumultuous period in the country's history.