Valery Bryusov entered the history of literature as a legislator of the tastes of symbolism. The activities of this Russian poet, playwright and prose writer were notable for their broad scope. Bryusov's works are imbued with an unswerving desire to move forward, in spite of and in spite of fate.
Facts from the biography of Valery Bryusov
Valery Yakovlevich Bryusov (1873 - 1924) was one of the brightest 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 carried away by 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 Kepler's biography, Nekrasov's poetry. The parents surrounded the boy with attention and care, sought to develop in him an interest in life in all its manifestations.
At the age of 11, Bryusov went to study - immediately to the second grade of the gymnasium. Compared to other students, he was distinguished by a very broad outlook, excellent memory, and a sharp mind. The boy's interests were very versatile: he was versed in literature, astronomy, philosophy. Valery very early began to engage in literary creativity.
Student years
After graduating from the gymnasium, Bryusov became a student of the Faculty of History and Philology of Moscow University. Here he is intensively engaged in the study of literature and art, history, ancient languages. His future work was influenced by the poems of Verlaine, Rambo, Mallarmé, and other French Symbolists read during his student years.
Soon Valery published three collections of poetry, giving them the general name "Russian Symbolists". Three thin pamphlets have been the target of scathing criticism. The books were based on the works of Bryusov himself, which he preferred to sign with various pseudonyms. In this edition, the author defended the ideas of symbolism.
In 1895, another collection was published, called "Masterpieces". Now Bryusov presented to the reader's judgment only poems of his own composition. The pretentious title confused critics. Indeed, not every novice author dares 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.
Bryusov's symbolism
After completing his studies at the university in 1899, Bryusov completely immersed himself in literary work. For about two years he worked as the secretary of the editorial board of the Russian Archive magazine. Later, he again turned to publishing, participating in the creation of the almanac "Northern Flowers", imbued with the spirit of symbolism. For several years, Valery Bryusov was involved in editing the Symbolist magazine "Libra".
The author does not forget about his own work either. During these years, one of the most successful collections of Bryusov was published. Urban motives and the fate of mankind are closely intertwined in the poet's work.
Bryusov as a prose writer
Bryusov's prose appeared somewhat later than his poetry. He wrote a series of stories "The Earth's Axis". Here the author invites the reader to feel the abstract harmony of a world riddled with contradictions. In 1908, his novel The Fiery Angel was published. This work is considered one of the most mysterious in Bryusov's work. Real facts from the author's biography are intertwined in the novel with history and mystical notes.
Bryusov did a lot of translations as well. He created a number of outstanding works for the theater, translated the literary masterpieces of Verharn, Rolland, Byron, Goethe, Maeterlinck.
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.
Personal life of Valery Bryusov
Bryusov also drew his inspiration from communication with the fair sex. The usual governess Joanna Runt became his wife. He passionately loved his wife, but this did not in the least prevent him from seeking love adventures on the side. Over the years, Bryusov became a participant in many stormy novels. He had no children in marriage.
