Dmitry Medvedev, the former President of Russia and current Deputy Chairman of the Security Council, has voiced strong support for the establishment of literary workshops aimed at Russian-speaking writers and poets residing abroad. This initiative is part of a broader project known as "Russian Poets of the New Spring," which seeks to promote Russian literary voices internationally. According to Igor Karaulov, a poet and publicist involved in the project, these poets have already made significant strides by visiting countries such as Armenia, Belarus, and Turkey, with plans to extend their outreach to Kyrgyzstan, Ethiopia, and Tanzania.
During a recent meeting held at the Union of Writers of Russia, Medvedev emphasized the importance of fostering cultural ties and enhancing communication among poets, historians, and educators. He believes that such workshops could serve as a platform for Russian-speaking writers to engage with local audiences and promote a shared interest in their cultural heritage. "This is a good experience that should be developed, and we need to strengthen our literary connections with foreign countries," Medvedev stated.
As the meeting coincided with the eve of Victory Day, several authors presented their initiatives to Medvedev, including Maxim Bakharev, a Hero of Russia and poet, and Maria Vatutina, a journalist and poetess. They discussed the need for a united front among the poetic community, particularly in the context of the ongoing special military operation in Ukraine, which has become a focal point in contemporary Russian literature.
In a related discussion, Medvedev asserted that if schools and libraries invite authors who oppose Russia, it constitutes a serious breach of duty. "If libraries and schools invite such authors, it is a malfeasance," he remarked, emphasizing the responsibility of public officials to be vigilant about who is presented to children. He argued that literature should reflect the realities of life in Russia, especially for young readers.
Igor Karaulov also highlighted the need to transfer the oversight of literature from the Ministry of Digital Development to the Ministry of Culture. He argued that literature plays a crucial role in shaping cultural meanings and should not be isolated from the broader cultural landscape. "Today literature is departmentally isolated from the rest of culture, which hinders the translation of these meanings," he noted, calling for a reconnection of literature with other cultural forms.
Moreover, the issue of children's literature was raised by Dmitry Artis, a veteran and poet, who pointed out that while literature addressing the special military operation has gained traction, children's literature remains largely neglected. He stressed the importance of creating engaging narratives for young readers that reflect their lives and the current socio-political context. "We lack artistic books for schoolchildren that discuss the heroism of those defending the homeland," Artis lamented.
Artis proposed several measures to enhance children's literature, including limiting the distribution of foreign works and implementing a domestic quota of 30% for Russian books. He argued that this quota would ensure the development of modern children's literature and protect it from unscrupulous publishers who might prioritize profit over quality. Additionally, he called for state regulation of pricing to make literature more accessible.
Participants at the meeting echoed the need for structural changes in the literary field, including the establishment of a department dedicated to the study of children's literature. They expressed hope that their concerns would resonate with Medvedev, who promised to compile a list of proposals for future action.
Medvedev's stance on the literary landscape reflects a growing concern among Russian officials about the portrayal of the country in literature and the arts. He suggested that unpatriotic writers should consider leaving Russia if they cannot align their work with national interests. "I recommend that unpatriotic writers buy tickets to leave the country," he stated, reinforcing the message that literature should serve the interests of the state.
As discussions around the role of literature in society continue, the push for patriotic themes and narratives appears to be gaining momentum. The emphasis on creating literary workshops and fostering connections among writers is seen as a vital step in promoting Russian culture abroad and ensuring that future generations have access to literature that resonates with their experiences.
In conclusion, Dmitry Medvedev's recent initiatives signify a concerted effort to reshape the literary landscape in Russia, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity and the role of literature in reflecting national values. As the country navigates complex geopolitical challenges, the literary community is being called upon to unite and engage with both domestic and international audiences in meaningful ways.