Ukrainian publishing house Osnovy challenges 70 years of Soviet cultural erasure

Ukraine is currently experiencing a literary renaissance, which has been particularly accelerated by Russia's ongoing full-scale invasion. Amid this backdrop, the Ukrainian publishing house Osnovy has been revitalized by its new owners, Vyshnevsky and his wife, Svitlana Matvienko. They purchased Osnovy in June 2023, motivated by the need to bridge the gaps left by decades of Soviet repression. The couple is intent on making Ukrainian literature accessible while also honoring its past. This initiative aims to provide resources that will prepare society for future challenges once the war concludes. Under the previous leadership of Dana Pavlychko, Osnovy made strides into international markets, producing art and photography books that gained traction in Europe and North America. After Pavlychko took over in 2012, Osnovy marked its second phase, significantly expanding its reach. Now, with Vyshnevsky at the helm, the focus is shifting back to domestic and foundational texts as part of a broader strategy to enrich the intellectual landscape of Ukraine. This effort is seen as essential in empowering citizens with the knowledge necessary to face post-war realities. Vyshnevsky recognizes the importance of revisiting classic Ukrainian literature as a vital source of intellectual resources. He believes that by understanding the contributions of past literature, Ukrainians can better prepare for future sociopolitical landscapes. This approach also reflects a keen awareness of the cultural identity that has been stifled in previous decades. He asserts that strengthening the domestic market is not merely about economic growth but also about restoring a rich cultural narrative amidst the ongoing war. As the publishing house works to fill the void created by Soviet-era cultural suppression, Vyshnevsky expresses a strong commitment to nurturing a new generation of Ukrainian authors, whose works are increasingly gaining recognition both locally and internationally. By highlighting contemporary literature that explores themes related to warfare, he aims to foster a greater understanding among both Ukrainian readers and foreign audiences of the significant impact that recent events have had on Ukraine's literary scene. This historical reflection and current engagement are seen as critical to bolstering national identity and resilience.