The First Encounter

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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.