Alexander Arkhangelsky is a well-known writer, author of essays and documentary works, and a recipient of many awards. Previously, for almost two decades, he led programs on the “Culture” channel, and now focuses on literary work.
From his youth, Arkhangelsky writes about Pushkin, but does not consider himself a Pushkin scholar; his goal is to talk about Pushkin for a broad audience, based on knowledge and intuition. In his book he raises sharp questions: how do the poems of “To the Slanderer of Russia” relate to the concept of originality? How do patriarchal views combine with individualism? What was Pushkin’s true calling, and why did he search for himself in ideology?
This work differs from a classic biography. It briefly covers all stages of Pushkin’s life and work—from studying in the Lyceum to exile; from conversations with the Tsar to lost hopes. The themes of happiness, faith, love, family relationships, politics, finances, and the duel intertwine into a single picture.