From Aristocrats to Fishermen: How Drago Gervais's Poetry Reveals the True Spirit of Opatija
O, večna suzo na oke mojen. Istro moja!
(Oh, eternal tear in my eye. My Istria!)
-- Drago Gervais
When most people think of Opatija, they picture an elegant seaside resort, a jewel of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, where aristocrats, artists, and politicians once strolled along its grand promenades. The town’s history is often told through stories of opulent villas, lavish balls, and famous guests like Gustav Mahler and James Joyce. But behind this glamorous facade lies a rich, authentic Croatian culture that is often overlooked—one that Drago Gervais, a renowned Croatian poet, captures beautifully in his work.
Drago Gervais: A Voice for Opatija’s Common Folk
Drago Gervais was born in Opatija in 1904, at a time when the town was still part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. While Opatija’s reputation was built on its appeal to the elite, Gervais’s poetry shines a light on the lives of the everyday people who lived and worked there—fishermen, shepherdesses, laundry women, and market vendors. His work, particularly in the Chakavian dialect, offers a glimpse into the world of these locals, a world that existed in the shadows of the town’s more famous residents.
Pod Učkun
Under Učka, little houses,
white,
small, like big
tears.
White walls, red roofs,
where sparrows
sing.
Little valleys, even smaller fields
where women
work.
White paths, narrow trails,
where carriages
pass by,
and a small, narrow stream,
where children
play.
The houses warm
in the sun,
as the church bells
ring.
But to truly appreciate the depth and beauty of Gervais’s work, one must read it in the original Chakavian dialect. This dialect, spoken in parts of Istria and the Kvarner region, carries with it the rhythms and melodies of the Croatian language. It is a language that, like the people Gervais writes about, has endured through centuries of change and upheaval. Translations can offer a glimpse into Gervais’s world, but they can never fully capture the nuances and richness of the original language.
Pod Učkun kućice
bele,
miće, kot suzice
vele.
Beli zidići, črjeni krovići
na keh vrapčići
kantaju.
Mići dolčići, još manje lešice
na keh ženice
kopaju.
Cestice bele, tanki putići,
po keh se vozići
pejaju,
i jedna mića, uska rečica,
pul ke se dečica
igraju.
Na sunce se kućice
griju,
na turne urice
biju.
For those with Croatian roots, learning the language is more than just a way to connect with your heritage—it’s a way to unlock a deeper understanding of the culture and history of places like Opatija. Gervais’s poetry is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Croatian people, and by learning the language, you can experience this heritage in a way that is both personal and profound.
Opatija is a town of contrasts—of grand hotels and humble homes, of aristocrats and fishermen. Drago Gervais’s poetry bridges these worlds, revealing the true spirit of the town through the lives of its everyday people. If you’ve ever felt a connection to Croatia or a desire to explore your roots, there’s no better place to start than by learning the language. By doing so, you’ll not only gain access to the works of Gervais and other Croatian writers, but you’ll also discover a deeper connection to the land, the culture, and the people who have shaped it.
Through the language, you’ll not only connect with your past but also gain a new appreciation for the vibrant culture that continues to thrive in places like Opatija. The stories of fishermen, shepherds, and market vendors are waiting to be discovered—let the poetry of Drago Gervais be your guide.
If you enjoyed learning about Drago Gervais and the authentic lives of Opatija’s fishermen, hardworking women, and everyday people, you’ll love my in-depth YouTube video on this topic! In the video, I dive even deeper into Gervais’s poetry and explore the cultural and historical significance of his work, showcasing the real Croatian spirit behind the glamorous facade of Opatija.
👉 Click here to watch the video on YouTube and immerse yourself in Gervais’s world of Opatija!
If you're ready to dive deeper into Croatian language and culture, explore my self-study courses here and here. Whether you're just starting or want to fine-tune your skills, there's something for everyone. Interested in a more guided experience? Join the waitlist for my upcoming in-depth courses here and here and be the first to know when enrollment opens!
