Philip Pavlovic

Philip Pavlović

Being born of a Yugoslav father and English mother, I was filled with curiosity of how my father came to be in this country, and what happened in his life to cause him to settle so far from his home.

This curiosity was difficult to explore, because of the reluctance to talk about the horror of World War II by those who experienced it at first hand.

I was aware of the heartache and home-sickness endured by the displaced people from that same land, on the occasions I had the privilege to share in their company.

On family gatherings I sampled food, listened to music, and was wrapped in the rhythm of a language that was culturally different to what I knew.

I wondered, why were they not able to go home and what happened to them during those dark days of war.

As I grew older I learned there were many who didn't make it out of Yugoslavia to safety as my father had done.

This tragedy that sat heavily with me, as the plight of many young men who were forcibly returned, to their demise, needed to be heard.

So came about my book, written exclusively on my mobile phone.

In the ethereal world, suspended between life and death, this book is the story of a letter passed from one era to another.

A letter, wrapped with string, sealed with two kisses, embracing a desperate message from a father to his two young daughters.

This message is a testament to the infinite endurance of love.....in all its intricate guises.

And you with your waiting, you saved me.