He ended his secondary school education in Kikinda, and graduated from the University of Novi Sad with a degree in Serbian language and literature.

As an expression of metaphysical self-exploration his language transmits clear and solidly structured images, fragmentary impressions and deep reflections that seek to decode the mystery of the modern world.

[2] Zivlak's poems are included in important anthologies of Serbian poetry at home and abroad, have been translated into numerous languages and have received many awards.

Dr Nikola Strajnić (Faculty of Philosophy, University of Novi Sad) has published a monograph about his poetry titled The Invisible and Visible (2007).

At the University of Banja Luka, Stevka Šmitran defended her PhD thesis on the subject of poetry Jovan Zivlak Chanting Anti-Utopia in the World of History (2005).