Andrey Kurkov: ‘It’s time to stop being naive - Putin will not give up while he's alive’
Mar 3, 2024
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Andrey Kurkov discusses radical social change in Ukraine, escaping imminent danger from Russian forces, adapting to writing during turmoil, ongoing conflicts with Russia, and the visual aspect of modern warfare.
Ukrainian society has undergone radical changes post significant historical events, leading to a more politically aware and pro-European populace.
Personal stories during the invasion highlight the immediate impact on civilians, showcasing the fear, uncertainty, and struggle for safety.
Deep dives
Impact of historical events on the evolution of Ukrainian society and culture
The podcast delves into how Ukrainian society and culture have transformed over the years due to significant historical events. The speaker highlights the radical changes observed in Ukrainian society starting from the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Orange Revolution in 2004, and the European Euromaidan protests in 2014. These events have shaped a more militant and pro-European Ukrainian populace, leading to a stronger civil society that actively engages in societal issues. The evolution reflects a shift towards a more politically aware and active Ukrainian population deeply invested in defending their country's future.
Personal experiences during the full-scale invasion and its aftermath
The podcast recounts personal experiences of individuals during the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, providing a vivid account of the initial moments of the conflict. Stories of residents witnessing explosions, navigating through traffic jams, and facing the reality of war highlight the immediate impact on the lives of Ukrainians. The speaker narrates encounters with fear, uncertainty, and the urgency to ensure safety in the midst of chaos, showcasing the harsh realities faced by civilians caught in the conflict zone.
Challenges and emotional toll on creativity and artistic pursuits during wartime
The podcast examines the challenges faced by artists and writers during wartime, focusing on the impact of conflict on creative endeavors. The speaker discusses the struggles of a prominent novelist in continuing his work amidst the war, highlighting the emotional toll and creative stifling experienced. The narrative unveils the internal conflict of prioritizing fiction writing in the midst of real-life turmoil, showcasing the profound dilemma faced by artists trying to reconcile their passions with the harsh realities of war.
Cultural identity and language dynamics in Ukraine's contemporary landscape
The podcast sheds light on the complexities of cultural identity and language dynamics in Ukraine's contemporary context. Discussions revolve around the challenges faced by Russian-speaking writers and the evolving landscape of literary expression in Ukraine. The speaker delves into the nuances of language politics, highlighting the impact of historical legacies and present-day conflicts on language choices and artistic expressions. The conversation underscores the intricate relationship between language, culture, and national identity in Ukraine's dynamic sociopolitical environment.
Andrey Kurkov is a Ukrainian best-selling novelist, journalist and intellectual who lives in Kyiv.
In this bonus episode of Ukraine: The Latest, host David Knowles speaks to Andrey Kurkov about Ukraine's radical social change and defending their European future, fleeing home and adapting to war, and why Putin will not give up while he's alive.