London, June 2023 – Literary enthusiasts, poets, writers gathered at the prestigious London Salon of Lidia Grigorieva to celebrate a vibrant and inspiring Literary Week. The event, held in June, showcased the richness and diversity of contemporary literature while transcending borders and cultural boundaries.

One of the highlights of the week was the exploration of the influential group known as the “New Amazons.” Nadezhda Azhgikhina, compiler of the collection “The Girl on the Ball, or Letters from Childhood,” shed light on the history and significance of this group. Comprised of talented female writers, the “New Amazons” have shaped contemporary literary landscapes by challenging societal norms and sharing compelling narratives that resonate deeply with readers.

Bijan Badi, an accomplished performer and participant in numerous cultural projects, presented new books dedicated to the legacy of his mother, the remarkable Iranian poet Jale Khanum. Badi’s writings pay tribute to his mother’s poetic voice, ensuring that her contributions to literature continue to inspire and captivate readers.

Poets Boris Fabrikant and Margarita Markova mesmerized the audience with their evocative verses, reflecting the human experience with honesty and vulnerability. Their readings demonstrated the power of poetry to transcend language barriers and evoke profound emotions within listeners.

Salon owner Lidia Grigorieva unveiled new texts from the groundbreaking literary project called “Termitary.” This project defies categorization, merging prose, poetry, philosophical essays, and sketches. Grigorieva’s readings challenged conventional norms, expanding the horizons of artistic expression.

Zinaida Petrucheniya delighted the audience with enchanting performances of Russian and Ukrainian folk songs, celebrating the richness of cultural heritage and the enduring power of oral traditions.

The international spirit of the Literary Week was evident, with attendees from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. The presence of prominent figures like Milica Pesic, Director of the Media Diversity Institute, and Berkeley University Professor David Tuller highlighted the event’s global significance. Journalists, readers, and literary enthusiasts from Russia, Uzbekistan, Great Britain, and beyond gathered to celebrate the universal language of literature, uniting people through shared experiences and a love for words.

In addition to the Literary Week, the London garden of Lidia Grigoryeva became the backdrop for an international presentation of the collection “A Girl on a Ball, or Letters from Childhood.” Published by the Union of Russian Writers (headed by the famous writer Svetlana Vasilenko), this collection features short stories by contemporary writers, providing a captivating exploration of childhood experiences through literature.

Compiled by Nadezhda Azhgikhina, “A Girl on a Ball, or Letters from Childhood” offers a curated selection of stories that delve into the multifaceted realm of childhood. Through the unique voices of contemporary writers, the collection explores universal themes of innocence, growth, wonder, and nostalgia.

The presentation of the collection brought together a diverse range of creative minds, including poets, artists, critics, and journalists. Their collaboration enriched the collection, offering readers a multidimensional exploration of childhood.

Childhood narratives have a powerful ability to resonate with readers of all ages, inviting reflection on personal experiences and offering insights into the complexities of human existence. “A Girl on a Ball, or Letters from Childhood” captures these elements, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the universal emotions and memories associated with growing up.

The international participation in the presentation further emphasized the universal appeal of childhood stories. Journalists and readers from Russia and Great Britain came together to honor the collection and engage in discussions about the power of literature to bridge cultural gaps. The event served as a platform for cultural exchange, fostering connections and understanding between different communities.

The celebration of Literary Week in London was a testament to the enduring power of literature to capture the essence of childhood. Through collaborative efforts, the collection “A Girl on a Ball, or Letters from Childhood” delves into universal themes, celebrating the rich heritage of literature and embracing global perspectives. This event exemplified the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of preserving and sharing childhood narratives across time and borders.

by Ann Zilbert