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Russian Book Club: Teffi. Memories & Short stories
Our book club is for anyone who is interested in Russian literature but is daunted by the prospect of reading a complete work in the original!
Each month we select a classic or contemporary Russian literary work to read in translation. While our discussions are held in English, we incorporate excerpts and quotes in Russian into the sessions to provide an authentic experience. The club is hosted by an experienced teacher, who will tailor the language element to the levels of the participants. So whether you’re an elementary or advanced learner of Russian, our book club welcomes all levels of proficiency.
“In the years before the Revolution, Teffi was a literary star. People quoted lines from her work in conversation. Strangers recognized her on the streets of St Petersburg. So broad was her appeal that her fans included such disparate figures as Vladimir Lenin and Tsar Nicholas II.” Robert Chandler
In 1918, a year after the revolution, she leaves a hungry Petrograd where the words “arrested” and “killed” had become far too common . Her Memories are a description of her long journey across the country which was torn apart during the civil war.
“I never imagined such a memoir could be possible, especially about the Russian Civil War. Teffi wears her wisdom lightly, observing farce and foible amid the looming tragedy, in this enthralling book.” Anthony Beever
Teffi’s short stories are light, witty and relatable, and also a reflection of her time.
We will discuss Duty and Honor (Долг и Честь), Subtly worded (Тонкие письма), Rasputin (Распутин), “And time was no more” (И времени не стало) and other stories.
