Hermeneutics of admiration

This essay discusses Adrian Gleń’s book Andrzej Stasiuk. Istnienie, which refers to the hermeneutical tradition in literary studies. The perspective from which Gleń analyzes Stasiuk’s prose is largely determined by Martin Heidegger’s philosophy, as well as postulates of “selfidentifying criticism” by Georges Pulet of the Geneva School. The essay presents a broader context for issues related to autobiographism, polemizing with Gleń’s interpretation “without biographical intrusions”. Additionally, methodological issues related to literary criticism under the influence of fascination with the analyzed works are discussed. The essay focuses on literary studies practices which explore the category of experience.