Vera Panova’s Looking Ahead is a thoughtful novel that delves into the post-World War II Soviet experience, focusing on themes of recovery, progress, and the future of Soviet society. The story centres around the lives of several characters who are adjusting to the new realities after the war, dealing with personal and collective challenges. Panova explores the tension between the past and the future, showing how the characters navigate hope, ambition, and the desire for stability in a rapidly changing world. Through their personal stories, the novel reflects broader societal aspirations and the Soviet ideal of moving forward into a brighter, more prosperous future.

Library of Selected Soviet Literature
Stalin Prize 1947

Translated from the Russian by David Skvirsky
Designed by O. Korovin, V. Chistyakov

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Contents

Chapter One. Listopad 10
Chapter Two. The Chief Designer 30
Chapter Three. Lukashin’s Home-Coming 46
Chapter Four. Uzdechkin and Tolka 78
Chapter Five. Children of the Factory 94
Chapter Six. Note-Books 112
Chapter Seven. Eve of Victory 125
Chapter Eight. Mother 154
Chapter Nine. Nonna’s Birthday 173
Chapter Ten. Nonna’s Birthday, Continued 194
Chapter Eleven. Sunday 209
Chapter Twelve. Troubles at Home and at Work 222
Chapter Thirteen. Love 237
Chapter Fourteen. At Night 252
Chapter Fifteen. Ends and Beginnings 276