The Annotated We: A New Translation of Evgeny Zamiatins Novel [Paperback]

The AnnotatedWe represents the first fully annotated translation of Evgeny Zamiatins classic novel in English. Generally recognized as the first modern anti-utopian novel, Zamiatins We has puzzled scholars and critics alike, for it is both serious and playful, full of games. Long considered to be enigmatic, it stands out as unique among his works, and its importance is beyond doubt, for it not only holds the distinction of being the first work of its kind, but is also widely believed to have provided thematic elements for the two most famous dystopian works of the twentieth century, Aldous Huxley's Brave New World and George Orwell's Nineteen Eighty-Four.
This new English translation employs language and syntax that mirror the precision and economy of Zamiatins Russian in hispoem in prose. The commentary that accompanies the text sheds light on Zamiatins use of language as well as on the broad array of allusions that mark it, while at the same time suggesting many previously unacknowledged sources for the novels playfulness.

In this translation of Zamiatin's We (1921; first English translation, 1924)the first modern anti utopian novelWozniuk strives for consistency and accuracy. He tries to duplicate the style of the original, and in this he succeeds. The translation reads well and smoothly, better than most of the translations that have preceded it. Wozniuk's annotations draw on previous research but offer original insights that provide new subtexts and sources. Wozniuk also uses the copious notes to explain his choice of English for Russian phrases and to cite variants of the texts in order to reveal Zamiatin's creative process. In sum, Wozniuk's commentary illuminates the richness of the prose as it aids the reader in understanding the ideas that drive the novel. This book is ideal for students of Russian literature and should be the standard in courses that include We