Iz mladih dana

This is the first volume of the collected works of the Croatian writer, journalist, playwright and critic Milutin Cihlar Nehajev (1880–1931), a versatile intellectual who received his doctorate in philosophy in Vienna, worked as a professor, journalist (Obzor, Jutarnji list, etc.) and president of the Society of Croatian Writers. Nehajev belongs to the period of Croatian modernity; his work is characterized by psychological depth, themes of the decline of intellectuals in modern society, critical spirit and a sense of theater.

The following chapters are represented in the volume:

• Poems – early poetic works from his youth, including patriotic and intimate verses (e.g. an ode to Senj).
• Novels and sketches – prose miniatures and short stories that demonstrate a masterful command of the short form, often with an autobiographical overtone and a depiction of provincial life in contrast to the metropolis.
• Literary Letters, Articles and Reviews – critical and essayistic texts in which Nehajev analyzes contemporary literature, Croatian authors and European influences.
• Theatre Chronicle – theatre criticism and chronicles, an area in which Nehajev was one of the leading Croatian voices of his time; it includes reviews of dramas, plays and opera performances.

"From the Young Days" provides insight into the formation of Nehajev's work before great novels such as Escape and Wolves. The book reflects youthful energy, the struggle between the "old" and the "young" in Croatian literature, and modernist aspirations towards introspection and social criticism. The style is elegant, analytical and subtly ironic, with a rich language that combines tradition and modern trends.

For lovers of Croatian literary heritage, this is a precious copy – not only because of the content but also because of the historical context of the 1944 edition. Rarity in the original cover makes it a true gem for collectors. The book testifies to the rich and diverse oeuvre of the author who left a deep mark on Croatian literature, journalism, and theater criticism at the beginning of the 20th century.