Boryslav in Flames

By: Ivan Franko, Yuri Tkacz (Translator), Max Mendor (Designed by)

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Hardcover | 28 November 2023

At a Glance

Hardcover
324 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
20.32 x 12.7 x 2.24

Hardcover

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Boryslav in Flames by Ivan Franko is a pioneering novel that depicts the rise of the labour movement in Western Ukraine. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the industrial revolution in the Austro-Hungarian Empire during the 1860s. As industry burgeons in Boryslav, a nascent working class emerges, inspired by socialist ideals - a unique phenomenon in mostly agrarian Galicia.

Central to the narrative is Benedio, a lowly mason's assistant who organizes the striking workers. This is offset against the impulsive rebelliousness and violence purveyed by the Basarab brothers.

Woven throughout this tapestry of labour strife is a "Romeo and Juliet" subplot of romance between the offspring of two affluent oil tycoons.

Serialized in the Lviv magazine "Svit" from 1880 to 1881, the novella remained unfinished, due to the magazine's closure. It was eventually published as a book in 1922.

Over time the novel has undergone evolving interpretations. Initially lauded as a portrayal of the budding labour movement, it was later dissected for its intricate character psychology and examination of wealth and power dynamics. Franko's representation of the perspectives of the workers continues to provoke critical analysis, solidifying its status as a seminal work in Ukrainian literature.

ï»ï»This book has been published with the support of the Translate Ukraine Translation Program.

Industry Reviews

Ivan Franko's "Boryslav in Flames" is an enthralling historical novel that masterfully intertwines the fervor of the labor movement with the personal dramas of its characters. Set against the vivid backdrop of the industrial revolution in Western Ukraine, Franko captures the zeitgeist of the 1860s with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of socio-economic transformations. The protagonist, Benedio, symbolizes the emerging class consciousness as he steers the workers' strikes, standing in stark contrast to the violent Basarab brothers. Franko's portrayal of a Romeo-and-Juliet-esque love story adds a poignant touch to the narrative, showcasing his versatility in weaving complex human emotions into the fabric of political and social upheaval.

The novella's historical significance is matched by its literary merit; Franko's nuanced character studies and his exploration of wealth and power dynamics provide a timeless commentary on society and class. Though unfinished, the work's serialization and eventual publication as a book highlight its enduring legacy in Ukrainian literature. "Boryslav in Flames" remains a testament to Franko's literary genius and his commitment to depicting the Ukrainian spirit.

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