About Me

Monika Herceg is a Croatian poet, writer, and workshop facilitator based in Zagreb.

Hello, I'm Monika

Welcome to my little corner of the literary world. I'm a poet, writer, and passionate workshop facilitator based in the beautiful city of Zagreb, Croatia.

For over fifteen years, I've been exploring the spaces between words—those quiet places where meaning lives and breathes, where emotions find their shape, and where the ordinary reveals its hidden poetry.


My Story

My love affair with words began in childhood, scribbling observations in worn notebooks, asking questions that had no easy answers. Poetry found me during my teenage years—or perhaps I found it—and we've been inseparable ever since.

What started as a private practice of making sense of the world has blossomed into a life dedicated to the written word. I've published three poetry collections: Početne koordinate, Ubij se, tata, and Vrijeme prije jezika, each marking a different chapter in my creative journey.

My work has appeared in literary journals and anthologies across Croatia and internationally, and I've had the honor of reading at festivals from Zagreb to cities across Europe.


My Philosophy

I believe poetry is more than an art form—it's a way of seeing. It's a practice of attention that can transform our relationship with the world around us. When we slow down to notice, to listen, to feel deeply, we discover that poetry is everywhere: in the morning light through curtains, in the rhythm of rain, in the silence between conversations.

This belief shapes everything I do—from my own writing to the workshops I lead. I want to help others discover that same magic, that same capacity for wonder that lives within all of us.


What I Do

Writing
Poetry is my first love, but I also explore essays, prose, and creative nonfiction. My work often dwells in themes of memory, identity, language, and the tender complexity of human connection.

Workshops & Teaching
I lead creative writing workshops for all ages and experience levels. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned writer looking for fresh inspiration, my workshops offer a nurturing space to explore, experiment, and grow.

Literary Events
You'll often find me at poetry readings, literary festivals, and cultural events. There's something magical about sharing words in community, feeling the resonance between poet and audience.

Collaboration
Some of my most rewarding projects have emerged from collaborations with visual artists, musicians, and fellow writers. I believe art flourishes at the intersections.


Currently

When I'm not writing or teaching, you might find me:

  • Wandering through Zagreb's parks with a notebook
  • Discovering new poets in cozy bookshops
  • Enjoying good coffee and better conversations
  • Planning my next workshop or creative project

Let's Connect

I'm always delighted to hear from fellow writers, curious readers, workshop participants, and kindred spirits. Whether you have a question, a collaboration idea, or just want to say hello—my inbox is open.

Feel free to reach out through the contact form, or find me on social media. Let's share words, ideas, and perhaps a verse or two.

"Poetry is the language in which we express our astonishment." — Carl Sandburg