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Zhivago's Secret Journey from Typescript to Print

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Boris Pasternak's epic novel, "Doctor Zhivago," is widely regarded as one of the most important works of Russian literature. The novel, which follows the life of a physician and poet during the tumultuous years of the Russian Revolution and Civil War, has been translated into more than 100 languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide.

Zhivago's Secret Journey: From Typescript to Book

by Paolo Mancosu

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2768 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	305 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

However, the journey of "Doctor Zhivago" from typescript to print was a long and arduous one. The novel was initially banned by the Soviet authorities, and Pasternak was forced to smuggle the typescript out of the country. It was eventually published in Italy in 1957, but it was not until 1988 that it was finally published in the Soviet Union.

The story of "Doctor Zhivago's" journey to print is a fascinating one that sheds light on the challenges faced by writers and artists in the Soviet Union during the Cold War. It is also a story of courage and perseverance, as Pasternak refused to give up on his dream of publishing his novel, even in the face of adversity.

The Creation of "Doctor Zhivago"

Boris Pasternak began writing "Doctor Zhivago" in 1945, shortly after the end of World War II. The novel was inspired by Pasternak's own experiences during the war, as well as by his deep love for his country. Pasternak worked on the novel for more than a decade, and it was not until 1956 that he finally completed the typescript.

The typescript of "Doctor Zhivago" was a massive work, consisting of more than 1,000 pages. Pasternak had typed the novel himself, and he had made numerous revisions and corrections to the text. The typescript was a testament to Pasternak's dedication to his craft, and it is considered to be a valuable historical document.

The Smuggling of the Typescript

In 1956, Pasternak submitted the typescript of "Doctor Zhivago" to the Soviet literary magazine, "Novy Mir." However, the magazine's editor, Aleksandr Tvardovsky, rejected the novel, fearing that it would be banned by the authorities. Pasternak was devastated by the rejection, but he refused to give up on his dream of publishing his novel.

In 1957, Pasternak smuggled the typescript of "Doctor Zhivago" out of the Soviet Union with the help of his friend and fellow writer, Olga Ivinskaya. Ivinskaya took the typescript to Italy, where it was published by the publisher, Giangiacomo Feltrinelli.

The Publication of "Doctor Zhivago"

The publication of "Doctor Zhivago" in Italy was a major literary event. The novel was an instant bestseller, and it was soon translated into more than 100 languages. However, the publication of the novel also caused a major scandal in the Soviet Union.

The Soviet authorities were furious that Pasternak had published his novel without their permission. They accused him of treason and of betraying his country. Pasternak was expelled from the Union of Soviet Writers, and he was forced to live in isolation for the rest of his life.

The Legacy of "Doctor Zhivago"

Despite the controversy surrounding its publication, "Doctor Zhivago" has become one of the most important works of Russian literature. The novel has been praised for its beautiful prose, its complex characters, and its insightful portrayal of the human condition.

The legacy of "Doctor Zhivago" is a complex one. The novel is a testament to the power of art to transcend political boundaries. It is also a reminder of the challenges faced by writers and artists in totalitarian societies.

The journey of "Doctor Zhivago" from typescript to print is a fascinating story that sheds light on the challenges faced by writers and artists in the Soviet Union during the Cold War. It is also a story of courage and perseverance, as Pasternak refused to give up on his dream of publishing his novel, even in the face of adversity.

Zhivago's Secret Journey: From Typescript to Book

by Paolo Mancosu

5 out of 5