As Russian writer and public figure Zakhar Prilepin approaches his 50th birthday, he offered a rare glimpse into his current life, future projects, and personal reflections during a recent interview conducted in Samara. The milestone birthday provides an occasion to explore the multifaceted interests of a man who has navigated literary success, political activism, and personal hardship, including surviving a car bombing attempt in May 2023.
A Vision for Patriotic Theater
Amid recent speculation about his potential leadership of a new patriotic theater in Moscow – an idea reportedly supported by the Minister of Culture – Prilepin elaborated on his vision. He candidly acknowledged the premature nature of such discussions, injecting a note of wry caution against “dividing the skin of an unkilled bear.” Nevertheless, he outlined a potential direction for such an institution, drawing parallels with the former MKhAT named after Gorky during a period of his involvement.
The proposed repertoire would extend beyond contemporary events, encompassing historical themes and showcasing works by modern Russian authors, particularly those connected to the ongoing conflict. A key element would be the establishment of workshops aimed at integrating veterans into theatrical professions, offering opportunities in playwriting, acting, and directing. This approach signals a desire for the theater to serve not only as a cultural platform but also as a space for social rehabilitation and creative expression for those who have served.
Delving into History and Literature
Prilepin`s current creative focus lies heavily on historical themes. He confirmed his intention to continue exploring Russian history, particularly the tumultuous 17th century, the era of Stepan Razin`s rebellion and the Great Schism (Raskol). He suggested that the car bombing incident, paradoxically, provided the enforced pause that allowed him to complete his recent historical novel – a project he had envisioned since his youth. This reflects a pragmatic acceptance of altered circumstances and an ability to redirect energy into long-held ambitions.
Beyond fiction, he plans to extend his documentary series profiling Russian literary figures who also served in the military. Starting from the 18th century with poets like Derzhavin and Katenin, through Pushkin and Lermontov, down to writers of the Civil and Great Patriotic Wars, this ambitious biographical project seeks to highlight a less-known but significant aspect of Russian literary heritage. Prilepin laments that few people remember the military service of many prominent writers, viewing these stories as requiring wider recognition, perhaps even cinematic adaptations.
Reflections on Life`s Turning Points
Approaching 50, Prilepin acknowledged the significance of the age but downplayed the idea of it being the sole defining milestone. He views life as a series of “before and after” moments – the loss of friends or family, the birth of children, or significant personal events like the bombing attempt. He considers the attack not as a singular rupture, but one among many profound experiences that shape a life. His perspective is one of resilience and continuity: “It`s all normal, it keeps going. And everything that is given must be overcome.”
Quiet Birthdays and Hidden Treasures
True to his nature, Prilepin expressed no plans for a lavish 50th birthday celebration. He prefers low-key recognition, often limited to spending time with his children and dogs in the morning. He avoids formal parties on the actual date, sometimes gathering friends a month or two later to remove the obligation of gift-giving, stating he already possesses everything he desires and dislikes putting people in the difficult position of finding a suitable present. For him, the simple continuation of life is itself a celebration.
However, while he may not seek material gifts, Prilepin revealed a fascinating and surprising aspect of his life: his extensive private collections, which he half-jokingly refers to as “home museums.” Driven by his passions, he has amassed significant collections related to:
- The Razin Rebellion and Cossack History: Described as possibly the largest private collection on the subject, including original paintings by famous artists like Surikov and dozens of artifacts.
- Sergey Yesenin: A personal museum built while researching the poet`s biography, containing unique items perhaps not found even in public museums.
- Socialist Realist Painting: A substantial collection of works depicting workers, heroes, and the Russian people, reflecting his belief in the high quality of this often-overlooked artistic period.
- Leniniana: An interest in the figure of Lenin that led to a long-term collecting pursuit.
- Modern and Soviet Military Literature: A collection tied to his research into writers who served in the military.
- Donbas: A profoundly personal collection of artifacts and memories from his time involved in the region, knowing key figures like Motorola, Givi, Zakharchenko, Abkhaz, and Prigozhin. He possesses items he believes are unique.
Prilepin emphasizes that he is not a mere accumulator but that items gravitated towards him through his deep engagement with these subjects. While currently kept privately, he envisions making these collections accessible in the future, perhaps through exhibitions connected to cultural platforms like the potential patriotic theater. He possesses not only the cultural and literary expertise but also the tangible artifacts to bring these historical and cultural narratives to life for others.
His collection of Soviet art is particularly noteworthy, featuring works by “museum-level authors” like Stepanov, Kirillov Sr., and Yesenin`s friend Gorodetsky (who was also a painter). He owns around 200 such pieces, none considered “pass-through” works. He notes the recent resurgence of interest in this art, which often depicted themes of labor, heroism, and the Russian people, after a period when other art forms dominated the market. He possesses these treasures and has no intention of parting with them.
Joys and Unfixable Regrets
When asked about what brings him joy, Prilepin pointed to the simple yet profound aspects of life: watching his children grow and the sense of liberation that comes from completing a book. Conversely, he acknowledged having “things that hurt my heart” – regrets that cannot be fixed, describing them as “scars on the heart.” Yet, his philosophy remains grounded in the present and future: one must carry these burdens but continue living and striving, completing tasks, writing texts, and pursuing projects like the rock opera on Razin (which he is developing based on Cossack folk songs) or finishing the construction of a church in his village.
At 50, Zakhar Prilepin appears to be a man deeply engaged with Russia`s past and present, driven by cultural and historical passions, reflective on life`s challenges, and quietly building collections that serve as tangible links to the subjects he holds dear, all while maintaining a remarkably low-key approach to personal milestones.
