Considering four separate literatures (Serbian, Croatian, Slovenian, and Macedonian) as one general body of Yugoslav literature, the significance and evolution of current literary genres since 1945 are noted. The effects of varying political conditions, controversies over fundamental literary questions, important thematic changes, and increased awareness of foreign literatures are considered in this article. The rejection of the Russian concept of "socialist realism" by Yugoslav writers is emphasized in reference to particular works. (RL)