Smoluch Stefana Grabińskiego

Abstract

SMOLUCH [Sloven] by Stefan Grabiński. The article attempts to answer the question about the ontological status of the main character of a short story by Stefan Grabiński entitled Smoluch [Sloven]. There are two possible interpretations: the sloven is either the product of imagination of the ticket inspector called Boroń, or a monster that actually exists. Decision about which path to follow influences the meaning of the whole story. Depending on the chosen solution, Boroń can be considered either the chosen one, an outstanding individual who is able to communicate with the spirit of the railway, or a madman.