The 1991 dissolution of the Soviet Union caused a major identity crisis for the Russian people. During the Soviet era, Moscow was considered a political and cultural center, author Clowes
(Slavic languages and literatures, U. of Kansas) notes in her introduction. But the post-Soviet era brought concerns that its crown jewel of a city had become second class on the international
stage. Clowes addresses these issues and the perspectives and sentiments of influential contemporary Russian writers and thinkers--and in doing so brings these creative and provocative writers
and intellectuals to our attention. Annotation 穢2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
