Andrei Bely was a pivotal figure in Russian symbolism, whose works are characterized by mysticism and a musical prose style. His approach, employing sonic effects that often evoke colors, profoundly influenced a generation of Russian writers and musicians alike. Bely's novels, particularly his masterpiece Petersburg, delve into complex psychological states against the backdrop of turbulent historical moments. His innovative literary techniques position him among the most significant modern authors.
Set against the backdrop of early twentieth-century Russia, this newly rediscovered novel delves into complex social and political issues of the time. Renowned for its insightful exploration of these themes, the book has received praise for its translation, described as "a coup" and "a remarkable achievement," highlighting its significance in literature.
Andrei Bely's four Symphonies—"Dramatic Symphony," "Northern Symphony," "The Return," and "Goblet of Blizzards"—showcase fantastical narratives that exemplify modernist innovation. Each work offers a unique exploration of complex themes and vivid imagery, reflecting the author's distinctive style and artistic vision. These stories not only push the boundaries of literary form but also invite readers into a richly imaginative world, making them essential for understanding the evolution of modern literature.
This volume contains a 15-page Introduction on Andrey Bely's work, followed by a the first published translation of The Dramatic Symphony (by Roger and Angela Keys), its hero struggling against philosophical nihilism. To dramatize the split between the world of matter and the world of the spirit, Bely utilizes musical formal structures and motif variation/development. The remainder of the volume consists of Bely's essay The Forms of Art (translated with an introduction and notes by John Elsworth); 183 pages.
Andrei Bely's Petersburg is considered one of the four greatest prose masterpieces of the 20th century. This new edition of the best-selling translation provides historical and literary context to the political, philosophical, and darkly comedic novel.
The book presents a selection of lyrical essays by Andrei Bely, a prominent Russian novelist, symbolist poet, and philosophical critic of the twentieth century. It captures his mystical insights and reflections during a transformative period, as he explores the emergence of a new religious consciousness influenced by Vladimir Solovyov's visions and Nietzsche's ideas about the creation of a new man. Bely's work conveys a sense of both hope and dread, signaling the dawn of a significant new epoch.
The autobiographical narrative poem captures the essence of turn-of-the-century Moscow, blending entrenched positivism with emerging spiritualistic trends. As a significant work of Russian Modernism, it showcases Andrey Bely's mastery as a poet and philosopher. The poem reflects the cultural diversity and upheaval of the era, marking it as a pivotal achievement in verse and a key contribution to the Russian Symbolist movement. This translation brings Bely's profound exploration of his time to an English-speaking audience for the first time.
