Wings

Description

Wings (Russian: Крылья) was the first Russian novel centred on homosexuality. Written by Mikhail Kuzmin, it was printed in 1906 to the consternation of a conservative literary establishment. The novel deals with teenager Vanya Smurov's attachment to his older, urbane mentor, Larion Stroop, a pederast who initiates him into the world of early Renaissance, Classical and Romantic art. At the close of the first part, Vanya is shocked to learn that the object of his admiration frequents a gay bathhouse. In order to sort out his feelings, Vanya withdraws into the Volga countryside, but his sickening experience with rural women, whose call on him to enjoy his youth turns out to be an awkward attempt at seduction, induces Vanya to accept his Classics teacher's proposal and accompany him in a journey to Italy. In the last part of the novel, Vanya and Stroop, who is also in Italy, are seen enjoying the smiling climate and stunning artworks of Florence and Rome, while Prince Orsini mentors the delicate youth in the art of hedonism.

Description

Vanya Smurov is deeply attached to his mentor, Dr Stroop. Initially appalled by the discovery of Stroop's homosexual leanings, Vanya abandons him to pursue a 'normal' existence. In turn disgusted by ensuing encounters, he returns to Dr Stroop and accompanies him to Italy where he begins his real education: in the world of art and of hedonism.

Subjects

Other Editions

• WingsPaperbackHesperus Press2007-09-28
• Krylʹi︠a︡s.n.1906-01-01
• Krylias.n.1906-01-01
• WingsArdis1972-01-01
• Wings; prose and poetryArdis1972-01-01
• Kryl'yaBerkeley Slavic Specialties1978-01-01