
The issue of Hungarian-Slovak identity also emerges with one of the most renowned Slovak poets, Pavol Országh Hviezdoslav. However, the Hungarian form "Pál Országh" (Hviezdoslav being added as a stage name) may appear somewhat unfamiliar to those who first encountered him in a Slovak literature class. In our minds, Hviezdoslav is rightfully recognized as "The Slovak poet." This recognition aligns with Hviezdoslav's own declaration of primarily identifying as Slovak. While his native language was Slovak, he was exposed to Hungarian and German during his studies and even wrote poems in both languages. Despite considering figures like Petőfi, Arany, Schiller, and Goethe as examples, he ultimately chose the "sweet-sounding" Slovak language as his medium of expression. In addition to his literary contributions, Hviezdoslav also made significant political statements, advocating for Slovakia's interests and welcoming the establishment of Czechoslovakia. Though his time in the new state was brief, his impact on Slovak literature and identity remains profound.