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Esenin at 130: From Butcher's Shop to Russian Poetry Sensation

From working in a butcher's shop to rubbing shoulders with the likes of Rasputin, Esenin's life was as captivating as his poetry. Discover the man behind the words on his 130th birthday.

This is a book. On the book we can see the painting of the people and text.
This is a book. On the book we can see the painting of the people and text.

Esenin at 130: From Butcher's Shop to Russian Poetry Sensation

Sergei Esenin, a renowned Russian poet born 130 years ago, led a tumultuous life marked by love, politics, and tragedy. He rose from humble beginnings to become a literary sensation, leaving an indelible mark on Russian poetry.

Esenin's literary journey began at the age of eight, inspired by the natural beauty of his native village of Konstantinovo. His first serious relationship was with Anna Izрядnova, with whom he had a son, Yuri, in late 1914. In 1912, he moved to Moscow, working in a butcher's shop and later in a publishing house, while trying to publish his poems.

Esenin's political leanings were evident early on. He was fascinated by the ideas of the Social Democratic Party and took part in strikes during his time in Moscow. His enthusiasm for the October Revolution led to him being in great demand, reciting poems and holding author's evenings. However, his refusal to write verses in honor of the Tsar in February 1917 led to disciplinary battalion service, though he did not reach the front lines due to the February Revolution.

Esenin's personal life was as colorful as his poetry. He married Zinaida Raikh in 1917, having a daughter, Tatiana, and later leaving her when she was pregnant with their son, Konstantin. His third marriage was to Sofia Tolstaya, the granddaughter of Leo Tolstoy. Grigory Rasputin interceded for Esenin, leading to his introduction to the literary world.

Sergei Esenin's life was cut short in 1925, with the official cause of death being suicide. Despite his tragic end, his legacy lives on through his poetic works, which continue to inspire readers 130 years after his birth.

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