Yevgeny Zamyatin Quotes

A collection of quotes by Yevgeny Zamyatin.

Yevgeny Zamyatin (1884-1937) was a Russian author and naval engineer, best known for his dystopian novel "We." He was born in Lebedyan, Russia, and grew up in a family of Russian Orthodox priests. After completing his education in naval engineering, Zamyatin served in the Russian navy during World War I.

Zamyatin first gained literary recognition as a short story writer, but it was his novel "We," published in 1921, that brought him international acclaim. Set in a futuristic society under a totalitarian regime, the novel portrays the dehumanizing effects of an oppressive state and explores themes of individuality and freedom. It served as an inspiration for later dystopian works, including George Orwell's "1984."

Zamyatin's bold critique of the Soviet Union's growing totalitarianism led to his falling out of favor with the Communist Party. Facing increasing censorship and harassment, he eventually requested permission to leave the country in 1931, and he remained in exile for the rest of his life.

Although his works were banned in the Soviet Union, Zamyatin's influence continued to grow among intellectuals and writers. He maintained friendships and correspondence with fellow authors, including Boris Pasternak and H.G. Wells, and his ideas played a significant role in shaping the Russian literary scene.

Zamyatin's later years were marked by illness, poverty, and isolation. He died in Paris in 1937, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer of dystopian literature and an important voice in Russian literary history.