Volokolamsk Highway by Alexander Bek is a poignant novella that explores the harsh realities of life during the Soviet era, particularly focusing on the experiences of soldiers and civilians in wartime. The story follows the journey along the Volokolamsk highway, where characters from various backgrounds intersect, revealing their struggles, hopes, and resilience. Through vivid descriptions and rich character development, Bek delves into themes of sacrifice, the human cost of war, and the quest for identity and purpose amidst chaos. The highway serves as a metaphor for the paths people take in life, highlighting both the physical and emotional journeys of those affected by the tumultuous socio -political landscape of the time. Ultimately, the novella reflects on the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of adversity.
Translated from the Russian
Designed by A. L. Ivanov
You can get the book here and here (new, better, complete version)
You can get the book here and here
Note: There is warping on some pages and some pages are missing from the scan.
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Volokolamskoe Shosse was the highway on which the construction equipment research institute VNIIstroidormash was located. In the late 1980’s and early 1990’s my family business had extensive relations with this institute and its related organisations. These gave us a close view of the transition from the Soviet Union to Russia that took place in those years, it was a very profound experience. You can learn more about the institute here: https://vulcanhammer.info/2018/12/05/npo-vniistroidormash-soviet-construction-equipment-technology/
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