Voice Over: Poems and Essays

Maria Stepanova is a prominent poet and prose writer in Russia's post-Soviet literary generation. She has founded a significant platform for independent journalism and uses her writing to address the persistence of violence in her country's past and present, particularly in relation to the conflict in Ukraine and the debasement of language that accompanies war. The Voice Over, a collection of her work spanning two decades, showcases her range, virtuosity, and creative evolution, exploring new bodies to inhabit and transposing established forms into unexpected and strange contexts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 18 May 2021
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Maria Stepanova is a remarkable figure in the world of Russian literature, emerging as one of the most powerful and distinctive voices of the first post-Soviet generation. An accomplished poet and prose writer, she has also established a significant platform for independent journalism, showcasing her commitment to social justice and free expression. Stepanova's verse is a testament to her formal mastery, seamlessly blending intricate language structures with a keen ear for the evolution of spoken language. In the face of growing political repression in Russia, Stepanova has responded with powerful and engaged writing that delves into the enduring legacy of violence in her country's past and present. Her most recent work, both as a poet and essayist, explores the conflict in Ukraine and the debasement of language that has always accompanied war.

The Voice Over is a comprehensive collection of Maria Stepanova's work, spanning two decades of her artistic journey. It showcases her remarkable range, virtuosity, and creative evolution. Stepanova's poetic voice is a constant explorer, seeking new bodies to inhabit and transforming established forms and styles into unexpected and strange manifestations. Recognizable patterns of ballads, elegies, and war songs are reimagined in new keys, infused with foreign influences, and juxtaposed with unlikely neighbors. As an essayist, Stepanova engages deeply with writers who have witnessed the devastation of war and the dramatic social changes of their times. Her pieces on W. G. Sebald, Marina Tsvetaeva, and Susan Sontag are poignant and insightful, offering a profound understanding of the human experience.

The Voice Over is a testament to Maria Stepanova's status as one of Russia's most acclaimed contemporary writers. This bilingual edition, featuring contributions from ten talented translators, introduces English-speaking readers to the rich tapestry of her work. By presenting her verse and essays in their original language alongside meticulous translations, The Voice Over allows a broader audience to appreciate the depth and significance of Stepanova's artistry.

In conclusion, Maria Stepanova is a literary powerhouse whose voice resonates with power and authenticity. Through her poetry and essays, she has explored the complexities of human experience, challenging societal norms and advocating for social justice. The Voice Over is a testament to her talent and dedication, presenting a comprehensive collection of her work that showcases her range, virtuosity, and creative evolution. As Russia continues to navigate its complex political landscape, Stepanova's writing remains a vital voice, offering insights and perspectives that inspire and challenge us to think critically and engage meaningfully with the world around us.

Weight: 434g
Dimension: 141 x 216 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231196178