Valery Bryusov went down in the history of literature as a legislator of the tastes of symbolism. The activities of this Russian poet, playwright and prose writer were widespread. Bryusov's works are imbued with a steady desire to move forward, contrary to and contrary to fate.
Facts from the biography of Valery Bryusov
Valery Yakovlevich Bryusov (1873 - 1924) was one of the most prominent representatives of Russian literature. He is also known as a talented journalist, publisher, critic, inspirer and organizer of the life of the literary community.
Bryusov was born in Moscow in the family of a successful businessman. Valery's parents were fond of the ideas of rationalism, which sought to make its way in society during the time of Alexander II. From a young age, Bryusov was surrounded by books. Moreover, many of them were imbued with the spirit of materialism. The future poet and prose writer was familiar with Darwin's theory of evolution, knew the biography of Kepler, the poetry of Nekrasov. Parents surrounded the boy with attention and care, sought to develop in him an interest in life in all its manifestations.
At 11, Bryusov went to study - immediately to the second grade of the gymnasium. Against the background of other students, he was distinguished by a very broad outlook, excellent memory, sharp mind. The boy’s interests were the most versatile: he knew literature, astronomy, and philosophy. Valery very early began to engage in literary work.
Student years
After graduating from high school, Bryusov became a student in the historical and philological faculty of Moscow University. Here he is intensely engaged in the study of literature and art, history, ancient languages. His future work was influenced by verses by Verlaine, Rambo, Mallarmé and other French Symbolists, read in his student years.
Soon, Valery published three collections of poetry, giving them the common name "Russian Symbolists". Three thin brochures became the object of caustic criticism. The basis of the books was the works of Bryusov himself, which he preferred to sign with various pseudonyms. In this publication, the author defended the ideas of symbolism.
In 1895, another collection, called "Masterpieces", saw the light of day. Now Bryusov submitted only verses of his own composition to the reader’s court. The pretentious title confused the critics. Indeed, not every beginner author will dare to call his creations masterpieces. Bryusov’s poems were distinguished by their unusualness, which bordered on provocation. Unusual images emphasized the individualism of the author.
Symbolism of Bryusov
Having completed his studies at the university in 1899, Bryusov is completely immersed in literary work. About two years he worked as a secretary of the editorial office of the journal "Russian Archive". Later, he again turns to publishing, participating in the creation of the almanac "Northern Flowers", imbued with the spirit of symbolism. For several years, Valery Bryusov edited the Libra symbolist magazine.
The author does not forget about his own work. During these years, one of Bryusov's most successful collections came out. In the poet’s work, urban motifs and the fate of mankind are closely intertwined.
Bryusov as a prose writer
Bryusov's prose appeared later than his poetic works. He wrote the series of stories "Earth axis". Here, the author invites the reader to experience the abstract harmony of a world riddled with contradictions. In 1908, his novel Fire Angel was published. This work is considered in the work of Bryusov one of the most mysterious. The real facts from the author’s biography are intertwined in a novel with history and mystical notes.
Bryusov had a lot to do and translations. He created a number of brilliant works for the theater, translated literary masterpieces of Verharn, Rollan, Byron, Goethe, Meterlink.
Bryusov, unlike many gifted contemporaries, unconditionally accepted Soviet power and even became a member of the Communist Party. After the revolution, he held a number of responsible posts, participated in the creation of the Great Soviet Encyclopedia.
