Vzmakh: 2-i sbornik proletkulta [Wavings: Second Collection of Proletkult]

Saratov: [Proletkult], 1920. Vasilev, M. (cover design). Illustrated publisher's wrappers. Item #623

26 x 17 cm. 96 pages: illustrations. Text in Russian. A fair condition copy showing signs of wear, spotting, corner restoration, and some chipping along the spine.

A significant literary and artistic anthology published in Saratov during 1919-1920. This collection, one of only two released, was a representation of the creative output of the proletarian movement, featuring poetry and prose. The poetry in the publication echoed similarities with avant-garde poetry, intertwining sociophysical existence with a symbolic system. For Proletkult, the alignment of reality with the text was a fundamental principle, reflecting the life and struggles of the proletariat. The culture was seen as a vital tool in the proletariat's arsenal, equal to political, economic, and cooperative forms of movement. The authors in this almanac emphasized the notion of the “great turning point” or the revolution, starting with the power of words. The themes revolved around collectivity and the masses.

The second collection included various works:

1. A portrait of F. I. Kalinin by A. Kollontai.
2. Poetry and prose celebrating proletarian creativity.
3. Works by A. Masterkov, A. Myadzelets, A. Strokova, S. Zasko, P. Teplova, and others, reflecting the diverse voices and themes of the time.
4. Contributions from A. Vinokurov, A. Zirich, I. Kuznetsov, and many more, offering a broad spectrum of poetic expressions.
5. A range of poems from different authors, each touching upon various aspects of the proletarian experience and revolutionary spirit.
6. Artistic contributions and discussions on literary education, highlighting the role of art in the proletarian movement.
7. Chronicle sections and conference materials, providing a broader context of the Proletkult movement.

This publication stood as a testament to the rich and varied expression of the proletarian cultural front, encapsulating the spirit and aspirations of its time.

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