Thirty Years in the Rain
The Selected Poetry of Nikiforos Vrettakos

Nikiforos Vrettakos
Translated by Lili Bita & Robert Zaller

ISBN 978-0-972466-13-4

About the Poet

Nikiforos Vrettakos, together with George Seferis, Odysseus Elytis, and Yannis Ritsos, is a member of the Generation of the Thirties that produced modern Greece’s most important poets. A Nobel Prize nominee and the winner of many national and international awards, he was a steadfast witness to the turbulent history of his time over a sixty-year career. His unwavering commitment to human values makes him a uniquely significant voice in twentieth century letters.

Praise for Vrettakos and this Book

“Every time I read the poems of Nikiforos Vrettakos, I am convinced that man’s inner balance can be restored.” -- Stelios Geranis, author and critic

“[Vrettakos’ is] the purest singing voice, Shelley’s skylark in a joyous outburst of praise for nature, woman, the innate goodness in the heart of man.” -- Kimon Friar, poet and translator

“I would like to emphasize the sheer beauty of the translations, which ring out not only in lyrically compelling fashion but as incisively truthful.” -- Anthony Molino, award-winning translator

About the Translators

Lili Bita is a distinguished Greek poet and playwright. Her work has been translated into several languages and widely anthologized. She is also a classically trained actress who has performed in both contemporary and Ancient Greek plays. Please visit www.lilibita.com for more information.

Robert Zaller is Professor of History at Drexel University. His translations of modern Greek poetry have appeared in numerous journals and publications. His honors include a Guggenheim fellowship.