Russia's Slovo Literary Award Spotlights War Stories and New Drama Talent
The Slovo Literary Award has once again highlighted Russia's top literary talent, honouring both established names and emerging voices. This year's ceremony introduced a new drama category and recognised works by participants in the Russia-Ukraine war (SMO). Among the winners were filmmaker Nikita Mikhalkov, journalist Margarita Simonyan, and playwright Yuri Polyakov, whose new work will soon premiere in Novosibirsk.
The Slovo Literary Award, increasingly seen as Russia's leading literary prize, expanded this year with a dedicated drama category. Yuri Polyakov, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Writers' Union, claimed the top spot in the Master division for his play Angel of Influence. The unstaged work is set to debut at Novosibirsk's Sovetsky Theater, with no other Russian venues currently planning productions. Polyakov, a laureate of the Russian Federation State Prize, later discussed the winners with Komsomolskaya Pravda journalists.
The Grand Prix went to Nikita Mikhalkov, the celebrated filmmaker and publicist. Meanwhile, Margarita Simonyan, editor-in-chief of Rossiya Segodnya (Russia Today), received a special prize for her book In the Beginning Was the Word—In the End Will Be the Number.
Works tied to the Russia-Ukraine war (SMO) also featured prominently. Maxim Bakharev, a Hero of the Russian Federation, won for his novella based on experiences in the Zaporizhzhia region. Poet Igor Panin, an SMO veteran, was recognised for collections documenting the fighting in Donbas and the special operation. The Russian Book Union, led by Sergei Stepashin, continues to support the award by publishing winning entries.
The Slovo Literary Award has cemented its role in promoting Russian literature, from drama to wartime accounts. Polyakov's play will reach audiences in Novosibirsk, while Mikhalkov, Simonyan, and Russia-Ukraine war participants see their works gain wider recognition. The prize's growing influence reflects its commitment to both artistic excellence and contemporary themes.
