The Rise of Vulgarity in 19th Century Literature

InfoThis is a summary of the following YouTube video:

Как XIX век изменил всю культуру? Пошлость в литературе| Евгений Жаринов, Николай Жаринов, Станислав

Семья Жариновых

Nov 8, 2024

·

Education

Пошлость

  1. The 19th century, particularly Russian literature, introduced the theme of vulgarity, which has persisted since then. This theme is not limited to media or eroticism but is about the mundane and superficial aspects of life.
  2. Vulgarity is described as a form without substance, where life is replaced by meaningless images. This concept has been a source of suffering since the 19th century.
  3. The discussion emphasizes that vulgarity is not just about what is broadcasted in mass media but is deeply rooted in everyday life and experiences.
  4. The text suggests that vulgarity is a pandemic, indicating its widespread and pervasive nature in modern society.
  5. The narrative implies that the recognition and understanding of vulgarity are crucial for addressing its impact on culture and personal life.

Исторический контекст пошлости

  1. The text discusses the concept of vulgarity, not just as a judgmental term but as a historical phenomenon linked to societal processes. It highlights how mass society emerged in the early 20th century, as described by thinkers like Vernadsky and Jaspers, when Europe's population reached 100 million.
  2. This mass society began to impose its conditions on the social fabric, leading to the decline of elite culture, which is considered the opposite of vulgarity. Vulgarity is described as universal and mass-oriented, devoid of elitist values.
  3. The emergence of mass society on the historical stage led to a demand for representation, which manifested in various forms, including literature. This shift was observed long before it was noted in Russian and Western European literature, particularly in French literature.
  4. The text implies that mass fiction, or popular literature, began as a result of this societal shift, marking a significant change in cultural dynamics.

Массовая беллетристика и романтизм

  1. The text discusses the concept of vulgarity, particularly in the context of mass society, and how it contrasts with the ideals of high Romanticism. It suggests that vulgarity is a manifestation of mass culture, which differs from the individualistic and idealistic nature of Romanticism.
  2. The conversation references historical examples, such as the description of a feast in Petronius' work, to illustrate the idea of vulgarity. However, it argues that such examples should not be viewed as vulgarity in the modern sense because they were exceptional rather than common occurrences in their time.
  3. The text warns against the anachronistic interpretation of historical events, emphasizing that applying modern concepts of vulgarity to past societies can lead to serious historical inaccuracies. It highlights the importance of understanding the distinct aesthetics and societal norms of different historical periods.
  4. The discussion touches on the aesthetics of ancient societies, particularly those characterized by slavery, where the concept of humanity was different. It notes that in such societies, slaves were seen as 'speaking tools,' reflecting a different set of values and ideals compared to later periods.
  5. The text references the work of Alexey Frochlov, who describes the era as one of total sadism and a naturalistic aesthetic, which would be shocking to modern sensibilities. This highlights the evolution of aesthetic ideals over time and the danger of imposing contemporary values on historical contexts.

Пошлость в культуре до XIX века

  1. Vulgarity has been present in culture even before the 19th century, often manifesting as a form of mockery or satire. This is not a new phenomenon, as it has existed in various forms throughout history.
  2. The text discusses the concept of 'mass society' and its influence on culture, suggesting that vulgarity was prevalent even before the rise of mass society. This implies that vulgarity is not solely a product of modern times.
  3. The example of Mozart is used to illustrate how true genius can transcend vulgarity. Despite being extremely popular, Mozart's work is not considered vulgar because of his exceptional talent and contributions to music.
  4. The text contrasts Mozart's genius with other contemporary musicians who were not as talented or remembered. This highlights how popularity does not always equate to artistic value or cultural significance.
  5. The discussion touches on the elitist nature of high culture during Mozart's time, noting that access to musical education was limited to those of higher social standing. This exclusivity meant that the culture of the elite was distinct from that of the common people.
  6. The text implies that vulgarity in culture often arises when art becomes accessible to the masses, leading to a dilution of quality. This is contrasted with the elite culture, which maintained high standards due to its exclusivity.

Пошлость в комедии Мольера

  1. The text discusses the historical context of vulgarity in literature, particularly focusing on Molière's comedy. It highlights how vulgarity was perceived differently across social classes, with the aristocracy often seen as possessing an innate sense of taste and refinement.
  2. Molière's works, such as 'Les Précieuses ridicules,' are used to illustrate the social commentary on the pretentiousness of the bourgeoisie trying to emulate the nobility. The play mocks the superficiality and lack of genuine taste among those aspiring to higher social status.
  3. The text argues against the notion that vulgarity is solely a popular phenomenon, suggesting instead that it is a widespread cultural issue that transcends class boundaries. It emphasizes the distinction between popular culture and mass culture, noting that vulgarity can be present in both.
  4. The role of the aristocracy in setting cultural standards is examined, with the text suggesting that their tastes were often seen as superior due to their 'blue blood.' This reflects Enlightenment ideas about the natural superiority of the upper classes.
  5. The text critiques the idea that vulgarity is an exclusively popular phenomenon, arguing that it is a broader cultural issue. It challenges the assumption that the aristocracy is immune to vulgarity, suggesting that it can manifest in various forms across different social strata.
  6. The discussion includes a critique of Rococo art, which is described as embodying vulgarity despite its association with the elite. This highlights the complexity of cultural tastes and the subjective nature of what is considered vulgar.

Пошлость и рококо

  1. The text begins with a reflection on lectures by Boris Ivanovich Puri, a student of Valery Bryusov, highlighting the complexities and interesting components of the Rococo style. This style is exemplified by the memoirs of Casanova, particularly the scene of his escape from a Venetian prison, which was admired by Fyodor Dostoevsky in his journal 'Time'.
  2. In the 1970s, a visit to Lomonosov, a suburb of St. Petersburg, revealed a Rococo pavilion at the Katelnaya Gorka. The guide explained how porcelain figurines with maritime themes symbolized the assertion of the Russian Empire's power at sea, showcasing the hidden, almost imperial meaning within Rococo art.
  3. The text argues against the simplistic categorization of art styles as either good or bad, labeling such judgments as 'vulgarity'. It references the works of Fragonard and Boucher, and Anatole France's character Evariste Gamelin, who dismisses certain art as 'salon nonsense' and 'absolute vulgarity'.
  4. The discussion includes Watteau's 'Voyage to the Island of Love', a masterpiece that conveys musical phrases through human movement, and pastoral scenes often dismissed as mere 'tastefulness' rather than vulgarity. The text suggests that these scenes, featuring shepherds and shepherdesses, were fashionable and reflected the lyrical tastes of their owners.
  5. Vladimir Nabokov's essay 'Philistine and Vulgarity' is mentioned, where he describes vulgarity as a polished beauty with status. The pastoral images in salons hinted at the lyrical nature of their owners, aligning with the fashionable trends of the time, which vulgarity often follows.

Влияние пасторального романа на литературу

  1. The pastoral romance genre has significantly influenced literature, including works by Shakespeare and Cervantes. It is noted that scenes in 'Don Quixote' are heavily inspired by pastoral traditions.
  2. The discussion highlights a specific pastoral plot that was particularly fashionable in the 16th century, which became a trend in literature and culture of that time.
  3. There is a distinction made between the broader genre of pastoral romance and specific pastoral plots, emphasizing the importance of understanding the historical context and evolution of these literary elements.
  4. The conversation critiques the oversimplification of literary genres and stresses the need for a nuanced understanding of how certain elements can evolve into clichés or vulgarity over time.
  5. The text suggests that without a proper understanding of the genesis of literary phenomena, one might misinterpret their significance or transformation in cultural history.

Внешнее впечатление и искусство

  1. The speaker expresses indifference towards external impressions, suggesting they can lead one astray. This is illustrated by a reference to a story about Ranevskaya, who commented on a woman's indifference to the Mona Lisa, highlighting that the painting has moved many people and thus has the right to affect some and not others.
  2. The speaker implies that art should not be judged merely on personal taste, as it often contains deeper philosophical meanings. This is exemplified by mentioning the need for an art historian specializing in Rococo and pastoral themes to uncover the hidden philosophies within such art.
  3. The discussion suggests that art appreciation should go beyond superficial likes and dislikes, encouraging a deeper understanding of the underlying messages and philosophies. This is compared to the Pre-Raphaelite movement, which also requires more than a surface-level appreciation.

Эволюция искусства и пошлость

  1. The text discusses the prevalence of vulgarity in art, noting that while many artworks may seem silly or lacking in taste, there are still great artists whose works stand out. It suggests that even in the past, such as the 10th century, there were tasteless paintings, but they are now valued more than some modern art.
  2. The conversation highlights the phenomenon where contemporary artists, like those who create simplistic or absurd art, are often valued more highly than traditional artists from the 19th century. This is seen as a reflection of the current cultural climate that favors novelty over substance.
  3. The text criticizes the modern art market, where works that are essentially prints are sold for more than original artworks by masters like Rembrandt. This is viewed as a symptom of the vulgarity epidemic in art.
  4. The discussion references historical figures like Molière and Heraclitus, suggesting that vulgarity has been a part of culture for a long time. It mentions that even in ancient Greece, not all citizens had voting rights, indicating a long-standing disconnect between the elite and the common people.
  5. The text argues that vulgarity became an epidemic during the Roman Empire, particularly in the era of Trajan. It notes that despite the large population of Rome at the time, the influence of the masses on culture was limited, yet vulgarity still spread.

Гладиаторские бои и их эстетика

  1. Gladiator fights are discussed in the context of Roman aesthetics, as detailed in Losev's book 'Roman Hellenistic Aesthetics' from the 2nd century AD.
  2. The text emphasizes the importance of understanding gladiator fights without bias or trivialization, highlighting their cultural significance during the era of Caesar.
  3. These events were attended by diverse audiences, including pregnant women, and were as emotionally impactful as ancient Greek tragedies.
  4. The Roman experience of catharsis was unique, requiring the visceral reality of combat, unlike the more symbolic representations in Greek culture.
  5. The text contrasts the Roman pursuit of realism in gladiator and naval battles with the notion of mass entertainment, suggesting a complex cultural phenomenon.

Массовая культура и её влияние

  1. The text discusses the influence of vulgarity in mass culture, particularly in literature, and how it has permeated various forms of art and entertainment.
  2. It highlights the historical context of vulgarity, tracing its presence from ancient Roman gladiatorial games to modern Hollywood productions.
  3. The text criticizes Hollywood for its unrealistic portrayals, comparing it to Disneyland, where entertainment is prioritized over authenticity.
  4. The Roman Empire, despite its vastness, was managed by a small elite who were considered aesthetes, valuing art and culture.
  5. The text mentions the discovery of Troy by Heinrich Schliemann in the 19th century, noting that Romans were already aware of Troy as a cultural center.
  6. Virgil, a great Roman poet, wrote the Aeneid inspired by Homer, showing the cultural significance of ancient Greek literature to the Romans.
  7. The text argues that before the 19th century, vulgarity was not widespread but existed in pockets, such as in gladiatorial games.
  8. It emphasizes that the perception of vulgarity is subjective and often tied to cultural and historical contexts.
  9. The text concludes by reflecting on how mass culture today often prioritizes entertainment over artistic and cultural authenticity.

Эстетика и пошлость в футболе

  1. The text discusses the concept of sadism in ancient Rome, where childhood was not recognized, and children were often sold into slavery. This historical context sets the stage for understanding the brutal nature of certain cultural practices.
  2. Football matches are compared to gladiatorial games, suggesting that while they may not be vulgar, they possess their own unique aesthetics. The text references an article by Rudneva that explores the metaphysics of football, highlighting its grandeur and heroism.
  3. A specific football match from the 1998 World Cup between Argentina and England is recounted. The narrative focuses on David Beckham's infamous red card and the emergence of a young player, Michael Owen, who became the focal point of the attack and scored a memorable goal.
  4. The commentary by Utkin, a renowned sports commentator, is mentioned, emphasizing the historical context of England's footballing shame, such as Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal, and how these events shaped the young players' determination and performance.
  5. The text acknowledges the beauty and skill in football, particularly praising the French team's performance in the same tournament. However, it also criticizes the surrounding culture of football, which is described as incredibly vulgar, driven by moments of brilliance.
  6. The discussion transitions to the broader theme of vulgarity as a phenomenon of mass culture, suggesting that it is not merely a subjective judgment but an inherent aspect of popular culture, akin to a pandemic. The text references Saltykov-Shchedrin's quote to illustrate the persistence of vulgarity.

Талант и пошлость в массовой культуре

  1. The text discusses the persistence of talent in the face of vulgarity in mass culture, highlighting that even in such circumstances, there are still first-class writers, football players, and singers who perform for the masses.
  2. Despite the decline of Hollywood's Golden Age, the text notes that high-quality films are still produced, mentioning filmmakers like the Coen brothers and Jim Jarmusch as examples of independent cinema that continues to thrive.
  3. Vulgarity is described not as a judgmental term but as a phenomenon within mass culture, suggesting that talent and vulgarity coexist, with talent surviving even in a 'pandemic' of vulgarity.
  4. The text draws a parallel between the current cultural situation and historical events, such as the plague, where despite widespread adversity, some individuals survived and continued to create art.
  5. The mention of gladiatorial games serves as an analogy for how mass entertainment can be perceived, with gladiators being seen as stars and sex symbols, similar to modern celebrities, and the commercialization of their image through merchandise.
  6. The text reflects on the Roman approach to making everything a mass event, illustrating how mass culture has long been a part of human history.

Жизнь римлянина эпохи Трояна

  1. The Roman Empire during Trajan's era was vast, with Rome itself being a significant city. Although a million people might seem small by today's standards, the city's infrastructure, like shops and baths, was advanced for its time.
  2. Visiting places like Pompeii, with its well-preserved lifestyle, gives a sense of the communal and sophisticated urban life that would inspire future European cities.
  3. The concept of vulgarity is tied to mass society, where the sheer number of people can dilute cultural sophistication.
  4. The text suggests that as populations grow, potentially even expanding to other planets, the influence of mass society on culture and vulgarity will increase.

Массовое общество и пошлость

  1. The text discusses the concept of vulgarity in literature and its historical context, emphasizing how mass society contributes to this phenomenon.
  2. In the past, particularly at the beginning of the century, vulgarity was less prevalent due to the absence of mass society, which limited the rapid spread of ideas.
  3. The text highlights the craftsmanship of Renaissance artists, who were seen as artisans creating unparalleled works of art, unlike today's mass-produced culture.
  4. Renaissance artists were trained in workshops, similar to vocational schools, where they honed their skills and emerged as geniuses like Leonardo da Vinci.
  5. The lack of a mass consumer base meant that even everyday objects, like door handles or baptistery gates, were crafted as works of art.
  6. The text implies that the presence of a large audience today has led to a decline in artistic quality, as the focus shifts from craftsmanship to mass appeal.

Влияние количества людей на культуру

  1. The text criticizes the modern architectural landscape of Dubai, describing it as vulgar with its glass and concrete structures against the desert backdrop. This imagery is used to highlight the perceived lack of meaningfulness and danger of the desert environment.
  2. The author reflects on a Soviet song about the desert, which evokes feelings of discomfort and harshness, symbolizing the broader theme of cultural emptiness and superficiality.
  3. The text suggests that people, historically and presently, live with misconceptions and exhibit vulgarity when given a voice. This is contrasted with historical periods where fewer people had influence, implying a purer cultural expression.
  4. The discussion touches on the mathematical aspect of population size, suggesting that the smaller number of people in the past resulted in less cultural influence and possibly less vulgarity.
  5. The text implies that the increase in population has led to a dilution of cultural quality, as more voices contribute to a mass culture that often lacks depth and sophistication.

Влияние чумы на искусство Возрождения

  1. The text discusses the lack of reliable methods for recording information in the past, leading to significant gaps in historical data. This is supported by the French Annales School and Russian historian Gurevich, who wrote 'Culture is Silent,' highlighting the absence of records.
  2. The Black Plague, which wiped out two-thirds of Europe's population in the 14th century, is identified as a pivotal event that influenced the emergence of Renaissance art. The global population at the time was estimated to be only 400 million.
  3. Barbara Tuchman argues that the Renaissance owes its existence to the Black Plague, as it led individuals to perceive themselves as titans, fostering a sense of individualism and self-awareness.
  4. The text references a conversation with Montaigne, a prominent French writer, who is portrayed as an intellectual focusing on himself yet conveying the collective experience of humanity. This reflects the Renaissance spirit of individualism and intellectual exploration.
  5. The Renaissance is characterized by the emergence of 'titans,' or great individuals, who arose during a time when the population was significantly reduced, suggesting that fewer people led to a concentration of intellectual and artistic talent.
  6. The text clarifies that the reduction in population is not advocated as a solution to banality, as fewer people would also mean fewer great individuals. It contrasts the perspectives of Molière and Chekhov, who both critique the common man from a detached viewpoint.

Чехов и его отношение к народу

  1. Chekhov is considered one of the most democratic writers in Russian literature, as he includes a wide range of characters in his works. Unlike other authors, he does not directly express his opinions about his characters, allowing readers to form their own judgments.
  2. Chekhov's approach contrasts with that of Dostoevsky and Tolstoy, as he challenges the myth of the Russian people by presenting them without direct commentary. This method is similar to Flaubert's, where the narrative is presented without explicit authorial judgment.
  3. An example of Chekhov's technique is when he describes a character scalding a child's feet with boiling water. He does not explicitly condemn the action but presents it for the reader to interpret, highlighting his objective narrative style.
  4. The discussion points out that Chekhov's characters, like Yakov Bronza from 'Rothschild's Violin,' are subjects of reflection rather than direct authorial judgment. Chekhov uses humor and empathy to portray his characters, allowing for a complex understanding of their actions and emotions.
  5. The conversation also touches on the inversion of romanticism, where the collection of folk tales by the Brothers Grimm is mentioned as an example of how romanticism contributed to the rise of mass art in the 19th century.

Романтизм и пошлость

  1. The text discusses the shift in perception of the common people from being a source of inspiration to being seen in a different light by the end of the 19th century, with Chekhov representing this change.
  2. Romanticism initially opposed vulgarity, dividing people into categories like philistines and enthusiasts, as seen in Hoffmann's works where irony is used to critique the ordinary.
  3. The 'Golden Pot' by Hoffmann exemplifies this irony, turning a chamber pot into a symbol of alchemy, highlighting the conflict between the mundane and the mystical.
  4. As Romanticism faded from mainstream literature, it transitioned into popular fiction, becoming more commonplace and losing its original depth, turning into what is described as 'vulgar romanticism.'
  5. This transformation is evident in modern popular songs, which often focus on love and passion, themes central to Romanticism, but are now seen as clichéd and superficial.
  6. Gogol is mentioned as another figure who possibly critiques this shift, with his works reflecting on the nature of reality and the presence of higher forces.

Пошлость в произведениях Гоголя

  1. Gogol's works, such as 'Evenings on a Farm near Dikanka' and 'Petersburg Tales,' carry the imprint of Romanticism, similar to Pushkin's 'Eugene Onegin.' These works exist at the intersection of Romanticism and Realism, not purely realistic but hinting at the Western European realism of Balzac, who also incorporated romantic ideas.
  2. Gogol was among the first to draw attention to vulgarity in literature, identifying it in female characters, a theme later explored by Flaubert in 'Madame Bovary.' This is exemplified in the famous conversation in 'Dead Souls' where women replace crude Russian expressions with French words, highlighting societal pretensions.
  3. In 'The Government Inspector,' the character Khlestakov embodies vulgarity through his lies, which he himself believes, captivating others with his deceit. He represents a spirit of falsehood, akin to an elf with singed wings, who speaks of fantastical things like 30,000 couriers, illustrating the absurdity of his claims.
  4. Khlestakov's interactions reveal societal attitudes towards corruption, as people around him think he is lying excessively, yet they approach him with bribes, seeing him as a 'normal' person when he accepts them, indicating a critique of societal norms and corruption.
  5. Gogol's plays and stories, including 'Dead Souls,' consistently explore themes of vulgarity and societal pretensions throughout the century, offering a critique of the superficiality and moral decay in society.

Пошлость в литературе

  1. The concept of vulgarity in literature is explored through various authors and their works, highlighting its pervasive influence across different cultures and time periods.
  2. In German literature, E.T.A. Hoffmann is noted for incorporating elements of vulgarity, while in Russian literature, Nikolai Gogol is recognized for similar themes.
  3. Fyodor Dostoevsky's characters often embody vulgar traits, reflecting societal issues and personal struggles, with Anton Chekhov further expanding on these themes in his works.
  4. Western literature also grapples with vulgarity, with authors like Émile Zola and Anatole France depicting it in their narratives, showcasing its universal presence.
  5. The discussion contrasts the treatment of vulgarity by different authors, such as the subtle irony in Dostoevsky's portrayal versus the more explicit depictions by others.
  6. The text examines how vulgarity has been a consistent theme in literature, influencing both the narrative style and the cultural context of various works.

Влияние массового общества

  1. The text discusses the role of mass society in propagating vulgarity, highlighting how societal changes in the 20th century have influenced this phenomenon.
  2. With the advent of mass media, such as radio and television, vulgarity can be broadcasted to a larger audience, increasing its impact on society.
  3. Authors like Kurt Vonnegut and Günter Grass are noted for their satirical approach to vulgarity, using humor and irony to critique societal norms.
  4. The text mentions how these authors, through their works, challenge the bourgeois values and the inherent vulgarity within them.
  5. The narrative suggests that the integration of vulgarity into mass culture is facilitated by the tools of mass communication, which spread these ideas widely.
  6. The text implies a connection between bourgeois values and socialism, as critiqued by authors like Günter Grass in his works.
  7. The discussion is framed within the context of a 'carnival culture,' where satire and humor are used to expose and ridicule societal flaws.

Коммерциализация искусства

  1. The text discusses the influence of vulgarity in literature, particularly focusing on the works of Thomas Mann and the concept of duality in his romantic tradition. It highlights the transformation that occurs at the boundary of life and death, which is a recurring theme in Mann's intellectual novels.
  2. The conversation contrasts the intellectual depth of Thomas Mann's works with the perceived vulgarity in other cultural figures, such as Andy Warhol. Warhol is described as a commercial figure, prioritizing income over artistic integrity, which is seen as a form of vulgarity.
  3. The text criticizes the notion of pursuing a career based on potential earnings rather than passion or calling. It describes a scenario where a young person, initially aspiring to be a writer, reconsiders due to financial concerns, illustrating the impact of commercial considerations on artistic pursuits.
  4. The discussion touches on the superficiality of creating art for recognition or financial gain, rather than genuine expression. This is exemplified by the idea of a man concerned with how he is perceived by women, likened to a form of vulgarity.
  5. The text reflects on the postmodernist approach to art, where recognizable images are used in a manner akin to advertising, leading to a discussion on the 'death of the author' and the 'death of the reader.' This suggests a shift away from traditional artistic values towards commercialism.

Опасность пошлости

  1. The text discusses the concept of a 'pandemic of vulgarity,' highlighting its dangers as articulated by the poet Mayakovsky, who warned of the amortization of the heart and soul. This refers to the replacement of genuine emotions with insincere ones, particularly in mass cinema.
  2. Vulgarity in cinema is often driven by profit motives, where films that may lack substance are still popular among audiences who are not discerning. This leads to the promotion of certain behaviors and attitudes, especially among young people.
  3. The text criticizes the influence of reality TV shows like 'Dom-2,' which promote scandalous behavior as a norm. This is seen as a reflection of societal vulgarity, where superficiality and imitation replace authenticity.
  4. The discussion extends to the arts, particularly theater, where there is a divide between directors who seek genuine emotional expression and those who treat classical works with disregard, leading to vulgar interpretations.
  5. The text emphasizes the loss of originality and the prevalence of imitation in culture, where repeated patterns and clichés overshadow true creativity and emotional depth.

Кризис творческого образования

  1. The text discusses the importance of understanding classic literature and theater before attempting to reinterpret or perform it. It emphasizes the need for a deep appreciation of works by Shakespeare, Ostrovsky, and Chekhov, among others, before creating new interpretations.
  2. The author references renowned directors like Tovstonogov, Lyubimov, and Tarkovsky, who approached classic texts with respect and understanding. These directors engaged in meaningful dialogues with the original works, rather than altering them without regard for their significance.
  3. The text criticizes the current state of creative education, highlighting a crisis where individuals with little experience consider themselves experts. This is seen as a departure from the past, where creators had a profound internal culture and understanding of the material they worked with.
  4. The author, speaking as a teacher at VGIK, describes the current situation as a 'terrible crisis' in creative education. This crisis is characterized by a lack of respect for genius and a tendency to alter classic works without proper understanding.
  5. The text laments the current norm where people feel entitled to change classic works as they see fit, often without the necessary background or respect for the original material. This is contrasted with past practices where creators had a deep respect for the works they adapted.

Пошлость в повседневной жизни

  1. Vulgarity is a pervasive element in society, as expressed by Egor Letov in his song 'Plastic World Won.' This reflects how people live according to societal norms, as described by Vladimir Nabokov, where superficial interactions, like meeting a captain or a count on a cruise, are valued for status.
  2. The concept of simulacra is evident in standardized tourist experiences, where people follow pre-designed routes in European cities, focusing on expensive guides and notable artworks, rather than genuine cultural engagement.
  3. An anecdote illustrates the superficiality of status, where a former classmate, now a priest, boasts about the company he keeps on a cruise, highlighting the societal obsession with status and appearances.
  4. The text discusses the epidemic of vulgarity, where even intellectuals, artists, and clergy are not immune. This is exemplified by a video of a priest singing a popular song, which would be considered art if directed by a filmmaker like Balabanov, due to the added context and meaning.
  5. The narrative references Chekhov's observations on vulgarity's infiltration into all societal layers, emphasizing its pervasive nature.
  6. The text draws a parallel with Bulgakov's 'The Master and Margarita,' where mercy is depicted as an unstoppable force, similar to how vulgarity infiltrates human life.
  7. Bulgakov's inspiration for the character Frida came from an article on sexopathology, showcasing how elements of mass culture influence literature.

Роман и его элементы

  1. The novel includes elements of mass art, appealing to a broad audience with its tragic love story, vibrant characters, and charming protagonist.
  2. Despite its mass appeal, the novel is built on references to serious texts and backgrounds, offering depth for those who understand its foundations.
  3. The narrative walks a fine line between mass appeal and serious literature, attracting readers who may not fully grasp its deeper meanings.
  4. The novel's popularity stems from its ability to engage readers with both its surface-level entertainment and underlying serious themes.
  5. The story includes dramatic elements such as a tragic love line and captivating characters, which are typical of mass art, yet it also challenges readers with its complex references.

Милосердие и сострадание

  1. The text discusses the concept of compassion and irony in literature, particularly focusing on the works of Chekhov. It highlights how Chekhov's stories are characterized by a blend of irony and compassion towards his characters.
  2. The discussion touches upon the idea of 'mercy' and 'pity,' referencing Balzac's notion that pity is an offensive tenderness, suggesting a nuanced understanding of these emotions in literature.
  3. The conversation also mentions the impact of mass culture and the trivialization of certain themes, likening it to a pandemic of banality, but emphasizes that the aim is not to wage war against it.
  4. A specific reference is made to Bunin's story 'Light Breathing' and its analysis by the psychologist Lev Vygotsky, suggesting a deeper psychological and artistic exploration of literature.
  5. The text implies a critique of superficial engagement with literature, advocating for a more profound appreciation of the emotional and psychological depth in literary works.

Величие художника

  1. The text discusses the analysis of a story called 'Light Breathing' by Vygodsky, highlighting its profound conclusion. The story is described as a vulgar love story, yet it possesses a genius ending that reflects on ideals and immortality.
  2. The narrative centers around a sophisticated lady who frequently visits a cross, reminiscing about a conversation with her friend Olya Meshcherskaya before her death. The lady is captivated by the vivid eyes in Olya's portrait, symbolizing the essence of life.
  3. Olya Meshcherskaya, before her demise, discusses with her friend Subotina about an ideal woman, referencing a book she found. The book describes an ideal woman with elegant features and 'light breathing,' which Olya realizes she possesses.
  4. The story concludes with the notion that Olya's 'light breathing' has permeated the cold April air, symbolizing the affirmation of immortality. This reflects the idea that despite her untimely death, Olya's essence and ideals live on.
  5. The text suggests that Olya, who did not have the chance to fully blossom, might have become a vulgar woman, but her life was defined by her ideals and 'light breathing.' This highlights the contrast between vulgarity and the purity of ideals.

Чтение и его влияние

  1. The text discusses the importance of reading as a means of personal protection and growth, similar to how masks and vaccines were used during the COVID-19 pandemic. It emphasizes that not all reading is equally beneficial, as some people may choose to read superficial or trivial content that does not contribute to their development.
  2. The conversation highlights the idea that exposure to high-quality art and literature requires a certain level of maturity and understanding. For instance, a person without prior exposure to sophisticated films might find the works of Antonioni boring, as they require a deeper appreciation that comes with experience.
  3. The text mentions a philologist who, despite his deep understanding of literature, turned to reading detective stories and science fiction later in life, suggesting that all types of reading can be enriching. This is illustrated by a student who initially enjoyed light detective novels but eventually developed an appreciation for classic literature.
  4. The narrative stresses that reading, even seemingly trivial genres, can lead to an interest in more substantial texts. An example is given of a friend who started with popular films and eventually developed a taste for more complex cinema, demonstrating the potential for growth through diverse media exposure.
  5. The text warns against the dangers of superficiality, where real emotions are replaced by artificial constructs, leading to a loss of genuine life experiences. It advises against living by societal templates and encourages developing a personal taste in literature and life, which can lead to a more fulfilling existence.
  6. The importance of breaking away from societal norms and templates is emphasized, as doing so can enhance one's appreciation for literature and life. This involves recognizing and valuing genuine experiences over superficial attributes, as advised by the writer Anton Chekhov.

Чехов и его советы

  1. The protagonist, Yakov, upon receiving a terminal diagnosis, reflects on his life and realizes it has been filled with losses. He perceives death as a relief from these losses.
  2. Despite the overwhelming sense of loss, Yakov finds solace in his violin playing, which he had not fully appreciated before. This activity represents his true essence and fulfillment.
  3. In the story 'Rothschild's Violin,' there is a poignant moment when Yakov's wife, who reminds him of a bird, dies. She recalls their deceased child, an angelic soul remembered only by the mother.
  4. The protagonist initially does not remember the child, highlighting a disconnect from his past and personal losses.
  5. The narrative draws a parallel to the thoughts of Sander Spears, who discusses the human quest for understanding beyond conventional patterns. This quest often involves breaking away from familiar routines.
  6. The story suggests that people, when faced with existential questions, strive to regain a sense of peace, often through introspection and reevaluation of their lives.

Поиск и пошлость

  1. The text discusses the concept of 'vulgarity' and its infiltration into literature, questioning how this phenomenon has become prevalent and what dangers it poses to cultural and literary integrity.
  2. It suggests that the process of searching for meaning in literature is akin to a quest, where losing preconceived notions can lead to new insights, even in works traditionally considered vulgar.
  3. The text references the approach of reading works by authors like Dostoevsky, emphasizing the importance of the reader's questions and the answers they seek, which can transform the reading experience.
  4. The discussion includes a reflection on whether the so-called 'pandemic of vulgarity' is a real issue or a construct of societal perception, inviting readers to share their thoughts on the matter.
  5. The text concludes by encouraging readers to engage in dialogue about the presence and impact of vulgarity in contemporary culture and literature.