On February 12, Babel Books Berlin will host a presentation of Andrei Arkhangelsky's new book, The Country That Decided Not to Be, published by Freedom Letters.
February 2022 became a turning point, dividing life into “before” and “after.” However, as Arkhangelsky shows, signs of the impending catastrophe had been apparent long before that moment. Russian pop culture of the 1990s, having destroyed the old taboos, failed to create new meanings. Cinema and literature exploited the past as a decorative backdrop without attempting to make sense of it. The dissident tradition did not translate into political practice, private conversation did not become public dialogue, and a void remained in place of the former totalitarian ethic.
This is how the “mosaic of catastrophe” came together, writes Sorin Brut about the book (Novaya Gazeta. Europe). A society that does not make “decisions about itself” — about what to consider good and evil — finds itself incapable of social contract and ultimately chooses violence and war. Writer Tatyana Sotnikova (Anna Berseneva) calls this work “a book of despair,” from which, according to the author, we must now rebuild the meaning of life.
Andrey Arkhangelsky is a journalist and publicist, long-time editor of the culture section of Ogonyok magazine (2002–2021), winner of the Profession: Journalist award, and columnist for Colta.ru, Republic, Carnegie, The Insider, and Echo of Moscow.
The evening's program includes a conversation with the author about the book, time, and cultural responsibility, as well as answers to questions from the audience.
What Are the Objectives of the Award?
The primary goal of the Award is to support authors and promote Russian-language literature worldwide. We welcome all who write and read in Russian, regardless of citizenship or place of residence. We aim to foster a Russian-language culture free from political and imperial influences.
How Is the Award Process Conducted?
The Prize is awarded annually. The Jury holds a vote in which each member selects between one and three works. The author whose work receives the highest number of votes becomes the winner.
What Awards Are Provided?
The Prize winner receives a grant for the translation of their work into English, French, and German.
When Does the Submission Period for the Competition Start and End?
Submissions for the third season of the prize will open on July 15, 2026, and close on October 15, 2026.
When will the list of finalists and winners be announced?
On January 20, 2027, the Council of Experts will announce the shortlist. The Independent Jury will announce the winner on May 25, 2027.
What are the conditions for the nomination of a book for the award
Works published in 2025 are eligible for the third season of the competition. Eligible works (novels, novellas, short story and essay collections, documentary prose) may have been published either as standalone editions or in literary magazines. Nominations may be submitted by publishing houses and magazine editorial boards, as well as by the authors themselves or third parties (with the author's consent and written confirmation). Texts must be submitted for consideration in electronic format. The DAR Prize is open to all authors. Given the prize's main goals — promoting contemporary Russian-language literature outside of Russia — and the nature of the award itself (a translation grant), priority will be given to authors whose works have not previously been translated into English, French, or German.
