Russian Writer to Speak at Fisher

Dmitry Bykov, a well-known Russian poet, novelist, journalist, and public intellectual, will discuss his latest book about Vladimir Zelensky during a lecture at 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 21, in the Elaine Wilson Formal Lounge.

Bykov has been recognized for his literary achievements and vocal criticism of Russian politics, particularly Vladimir Putin’s administration. Born in Moscow in 1967, Bykov has written extensively, with works like “ZhD” and biographies of Boris Pasternak and Vladimir Mayakovski exploring Russian identity, history, and society. In addition to his literary and journalistic work, Bykov lectures widely on Russian literature and history, symbolizing the resilience of free expression amid societal challenges. His writing combines sharp wit with social critique, emphasizing themes of moral clarity amid a world grappling with the indistinction of good and evil.

Bykov’s vision includes a larger narrative of a “final battle” between archaic forces and progress, an information battle playing out before our eyes with our direct, often unwitting, involvement. His writing often portrays this struggle, including in his most recent book – a biography of Vladimir Zelensky, a protagonist unexpectedly shaping the 21st century by serving as an instrument of the Absolute—an enduring force in a world increasingly corrupted by moral ambiguity.

This lecture is free and open to the public.