Life – is the only real treasure for all living beings, humans included

Vasil Bykov, a renowned Belarusian writer and public figure, dedicated his literary career to writing about war. His works depict the profound impact of war on the human psyche in the 20th century, a time when millions of lives were lost. Bykov’s own life story is intricately tied to the Great Patriotic War, reflecting the experiences of his generation.

Bykov had to abandon his dream of becoming a sculptor due to the cancellation of scholarships in art schools. Instead, he graduated from a factory school where teenagers received full state support.

Vasil Bykov turned 17 just three days before the war began. Initially mobilized for defense work, he was drafted into the army in the summer of 1942. He later recalled, "In the war, I did what everyone did — I fought."

Writing in his native Belarusian and later translating his works into Russian, Bykov faced less censorship in the original language. His writings primarily explore human behavior in moments of mortal danger. His candid portrayal of the tragedies of collectivization, the arbitrariness of NKVD officers, and the struggle for the national independence of Belarus during the perestroika (reconstruction) years eventually led to his political exile.

Bykov returned to his homeland just a month before his death.

The works of Vasil Bykov have been translated into 23 languages. The RUDN scientific library houses over 20 of his works in Russian, as well as his novellas in Spanish and Arabic.

Find them in the RUDN electronic library