Fairy Tale

What will happen if the fairy tale is told by the chief deconstructor and provocateur of modern Russian literature? The answer is in this small but sharp as a razor book by Vladimir Sorokin. Do not be deceived by the title: this is a fairy tale that does not lull you to sleep, but, on the contrary, awakens you from slumber.

Using familiar fairy tale archetypes and phrases, Sorokin creates a whimsical and troubling allegory. The plot, at first glance simple, turns into a caustic satire on modern realities, where good and evil have long swapped places, and magic serves very pragmatic purposes.

In this short story, all of Sorokin's signature style is concentrated: a virtuoso play with language, grotesque, and the ability to expose the absurdity of reality with just a few strokes. This text not only evokes laughter but also deep feelings of anxiety. Its atmosphere is a warped mirror reflecting our world.

«Fairy Tale» is the perfect work for getting acquainted with Sorokin's oeuvre if you are not yet familiar, and a true gift for long-time fans. A book for those who appreciate smart, cruel satire and love when literature asks uncomfortable questions.