SMOG (literary group)

SMOG was an informal association of Yugoslav poets and writers active primarily in Zagreb during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The group was known for its experimental and avant-garde approach to literature, challenging established literary norms and embracing a more subjective and personal style of writing.

The name "SMOG" was intentionally ambiguous and carried connotations of pollution and something undesirable, reflecting the group's critical stance towards the socio-political environment of the time and the perceived stagnation within the established literary scene. They saw themselves as clearing the air, bringing a fresh perspective to poetry and prose.

While not formally structured with a strict membership list or manifesto, the group centered around key figures and shared aesthetic sensibilities. Common themes explored in their works included urban alienation, individual consciousness, existential anxieties, and the questioning of identity in a rapidly changing world. They often experimented with language, form, and narrative structure, pushing the boundaries of traditional literary conventions.

SMOG's activities included public readings, discussions, and publications in literary magazines. Although relatively short-lived, the group significantly impacted the development of Croatian and Yugoslav literature by fostering a spirit of experimentation and challenging the prevailing literary establishment. Their influence can be seen in the subsequent generation of writers who embraced similar avant-garde approaches to literary creation. The group's legacy remains as a testament to the importance of artistic freedom and the constant need for innovation in literature.