In an interview with Mark Vernon, Hardo Pajula delves into the themes presented in Czesław Miłosz's book, "The Land of Ulro," which explores the struggle of writers who have attempted to break free from the constraints imposed by scientific rationality. Miłosz references notable literary figures such as William Blake, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, suggesting that their works grapple with the essence of humanity amid a world that seeks to reduce individuals to mere numbers. The discussion serves as a reflection on the existential predicament faced by contemporary society, caught between the demands of intellectualism and the search for authentic human experience.

Pajula emphasizes that the title "Ulro" originates from William Blake and denotes a realm of spiritual suffering where human beings risk being dehumanized into replaceable entities. This discourse connects Blake's visions of life and creation with contemporary existential fears, illustrating how individuals can lose their sense of self in a mechanized world. Through this lens, Miłosz's insights reveal how literature can challenge societal norms and inspire profound reflection on the nature of existence itself.

The interview ultimately raises significant questions about the role of literature in navigating modern challenges and the necessity of reclaiming our humanity in the face of overwhelming rationality. As Pajula articulates, the struggle against becoming mere numbers in a commodified world is both a personal and collective journey, one that literature has the power to illuminate and inspire.