Internationally recognised art and literary critic, writer and cultural producer. Published in ELLE, Glamour, Esquire and Cosmopolitan; member of the Union of Writers.
Paris, a city synonymous with artistic brilliance, once again proved its reputation as a global cultural hub during the 10th annual Salon du Livre Russe, held from 6 to 8 December 2024. This celebration was more than a literary event; it was a vivid tapestry of multicultural experiences, blending Russian literary heritage with global perspectives. A celebration of literature and culture, the event marked the 225th anniversary of Alexander Pushkin, the revered poet and founder of modern Russian language and literature. With an extensive programme that blended literary discussions, artistic exhibitions, and musical performances, the salon attracted an enthusiastic international audience. As I stepped into this kaleidoscope of culture, I was reminded of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s reflection: “Those who know nothing of foreign languages know nothing of their own.” The Salon embodied this sentiment, serving as a bridge between traditions, languages, and artistic expressions, uniting voices across continents under one shared passion for literature, music, and history.
The Salon began on a personal note for me as I launched master class with theme Nutcracker, my latest collaborative work with George Bregman. This retelling of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s classic story is not just a whimsical journey but also a motivational tool for young readers. The book signing was heartening, with parents and educators expressing admiration for the way the narrative inspired children to dream boldly. Literature has always been a powerful force for societal growth, and witnessing young minds light up with enthusiasm reaffirmed its timeless impact.
Later that evening, I had the privilege of presenting the Creativity’s Prize UK to Irina Rekshan, the visionary founder of Salon du Livre Russe. Her dedication to fostering literary diversity and cultural enrichment is unparalleled, and the standing ovation she received from the audience underscored the immense respect she commands within the literary community. Her work ensures that readers and writers alike explore perspectives beyond their own horizons. It is gifted for contributions to the literary community and literary innovation! ‘ Thank you, Irina, for your dedicated love of fostering literary diversity.’
I, as writer and literary critic, presented a lecture titled The Phenomenon of Female Prose through the Works of Maria Bregman. This exploration of evolving themes in women’s writing, resonated deeply with the audience. I delivered an eloquent exploration of women’s prose in Russian literature. My discussion delved into the unique lens through which female authors transform personal narratives into universal truths, a testament to the power of storytelling in bridging cultural divides.
As I stood before the audience, I read excerpts from Fusion with Light, sharing its essence and inviting listeners into its luminous narrative. I also took the opportunity to announce Chelnovaya, unveiling a glimpse of the journey it promises.
After, Standing before the audience, I introduced my future book – Immortality. As part of the Big Dreams Raise Big Questions series, the book is a dialogue between text and art, challenging the reader to see the theme of immortality and longevity not as an abstract notion but as something tangible, emotional, and deeply human. Artist Katerina Karp’s evocative works gave the project a soul, transforming abstract ideas into something visceral and profound.
While the event was steeped in history, it also provided a platform for contemporary writers. One of the most anticipated sessions featured Gilles Cossone, who presented his book, Russia’s Tomorrow in the Light of Her Literary Past. His work ignited discussions about literary trajectory and its reflections on the nation’s cultural and political landscape.
Another compelling highlight was the presentation of sculptor Mikhail Shemyakin’s autobiography, My Life: Before Exile. The memoir, which recently received the prestigious Big Book Award, resonated with themes of resilience and artistic pursuit, providing an intimate glimpse into the life of one of Russia’s celebrated émigré artists.
One of the most anticipated literary sessions at the Salon du Livre Russe was the poetic reading featuring Galina Pogozheva, poet and translator, who introduced As If One Could Not Meet God, a posthumously published collection of works by poet and novelist Ilya Rubin, produced under her initiative. Pogozheva, the president of the Window to Europe Association for Russian-speaking poets, enriched the audience with her reflections on Rubin’s legacy, alongside her own literary contributions, including her memoirs of Grand Duke Vladimir Kirillovich.
And Alexander Radashkevich, a distinguished poet, journalist, and translator whose prolific body of work spans twelve books of poetry, prose, and translations published in cities as diverse as St. Petersburg, Moscow, New York, and Belgrade.
A cornerstone of the festivities was the Festival of Poets and Poetry in Honour of Pushkin. Evening was devoted to the poetic genius of Alexander Pushkin, an iconic figure whose influence echoes across the centuries. The Poets’ Evening in his memory stood out as a highlight, uniting voices from around the world in a tribute to his enduring impact.
I am delighted to have been chosen to read my poems at the poets’ evening, where I, along with Michael Rakhunov and Dina Dronfort, paid their tribute to Pushkin by reading their works.
Esteemed poets and scholars engaged in dynamic round-table discussions exploring Pushkin’s evolution from a poetic luminary to a cultural icon. The evening culminated in vibrant poetry readings that bridged literary traditions, showcasing how Pushkin’s voice continues to resonate across generations and borders.
Pushkin’s profound influence was a recurring theme throughout the three-day programme. The festival offered a kaleidoscopic homage to his genius, from exhibitions of his illustrated tales by émigré artists to screenings of cinematic adaptations of his work.
One of the standout exhibitions showcased illustrations inspired by Pushkin’s fairy tales, drawing on collections from émigré Russian artists. These artworks offered a glimpse into how Pushkin’s narratives have been visualised and reimagined over time.
The Salon du Livre Russe was not merely a literary event. Film enthusiasts were treated to screenings of iconic works such as The Queen of Spades (1960), directed by Roman Tikhomirov, provided a cinematic perspective on the poet’s enduring stories, blending Pushkin’s narrative genius with Tchaikovsky’s operatic brilliance, and Alexei Sakharov’s The Noblewoman-Peasant, a whimsical adaptation of Pushkin’s tales. Each film transported audiences into the vivid worlds of literature, underscoring the timeless interplay between narrative and performance.
For music lovers, the centenary celebrations of the Rachmaninoff Conservatory provided an auditory feast. Performances of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker and Khachaturian’s waltzes – masterfully delivered by the Conservatory’s students – created an enchanting synergy of music and memory.
Marking the centenary of the Rachmaninoff Conservatoire, a presentation of Destins russes à Paris by Erwan Barillot and Arnaud Frilley was followed by a mesmerising performance by the conservatoire’s students. Their music, delicate yet powerful, seemed to embody the timeless spirit of cultural resilience.
The milestone also included the launch of Russian Fate in Paris, a compelling chronicle of t he Conservatory’s century-long journey, co-authored by Erwan Barillot and Arnaud Frilet.
Jacques Chirac, the former French President and an ardent admirer of Pushkin, was remembered for his personal efforts in bridging French and Russian cultures. His translation of Eugene Onegin into French remains a testament to Pushkin’s influence beyond borders.
Pushkin’s poetry and prose continue to evoke deep emotional resonance while serving as a foundation for stylistic innovation.
One of the event’s most heartwarming aspects was its inclusivity, catering to audiences of all ages. Young minds explored the world of literature through interactive storytelling workshops, masterclasses with renowned authors, and theatrical performances. The bilingual school Aprelik, lauded for its commitment to teaching English, French and Russian language and literature, captivated audiences with a charming production of The Tale of Tsar Saltan by Pushkin. Their dedication to fostering cultural roots among bilingual children was an inspiring testament to the power of education in sustaining heritage.
Adding depth to this dialogue, the centenary commemoration of the Church of Sergius of Radonezh brought historical resonance to the festival. Father Alexis Pechev’s illustrated lecture retraced the émigré community’s enduring contributions to French culture, reminding attendees of the deep-rooted bonds between the two nations, chronicling the century-long history of the St Sergius Orthodox parish in Paris.
A recurring theme throughout the event was the significance of translation in expanding the reach of literature. Writers and translators such as Florian Voutev and Vladimir Fedorovsky presented their recent works, which included translations of Russian classics and contemporary poetry into French. These sessions emphasised the critical role translators play in fostering cross-cultural understanding and preserving the nuances of Russian literary expression for global audiences.
Equally captivating was the exploration of the history of Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois cemetery, a repository of Russian émigré heritage. Guided by expert speakers, the audience delved into stories that intertwined the personal and the political, shedding light on lesser-known facets of the diaspora experience. On the contemporary front, Jacques Baud and Regis Le Sommer’s discussions on geopolitics added gravitas to the event, weaving in narratives of current global complexities. As Albert Camus once noted, “Real generosity towards the future lies in giving all to the present.” This ethos was evident in the event’s thoughtful engagement with both past legacies and pressing modern issues.
What made this year’s Salon du Livre Russe stand out was its palpable sense of community. Writers, historians, musicians, and readers from diverse backgrounds came together, united by their shared passion for culture. Amid the spirited discussions, book signings, and performances, the event fostered meaningful connections that transcended geographical boundaries.
For me, the Salon was not merely an event but a testament to the enduring power of literature and art to unite, inspire, and provoke thought. The Salon reminded us that literature, in its raw and authentic form, can confront, heal, and transform society.
Walking away from the final day’s celebrations, I felt an immense sense of pride in being part of such a vibrant cultural exchange. It reminded me of the profound responsibility that comes with being a storyteller – to bridge gaps, to ignite imagination, and to ensure that voices, no matter how small, are heard in the grand tapestry of human experience.
Organised under the leadership of Irina Rekshan, the Salon du Livre Russe reinforced the deep-rooted cultural ties. Rekshan emphasised the salon’s mission: to celebrate literary heritage while fostering contemporary dialogues. “Pushkin, Tolstoy, Dostoevsky – they continue to inspire not only readers but also writers and thinkers in France,” she noted.
