Edith W. Clowes Livres

Through real and imagined geographies, examining post-Soviet debates about what it means to be Russian today.

Focusing on the evolution of Russian literature post-Stalin, the book examines how underground writers have employed parody to critique Soviet ideology rooted in utopian concepts. By referencing works from Defoe to Orwell, the author analyzes "meta-utopian" narratives that challenge traditional views of truth and representation. Edith Clowes highlights the interplay between playful and instructive elements in these texts, showcasing their potential to inspire social imagination and renewal. This exploration introduces readers to significant yet lesser-known Russian literary works.