Poetics of Exile: Objects, Subjects, and Nostalgia in Sergej Dovlatov's Suitcase

Abstract

This thesis, titled "Emigration Literature through the eyes of Sergej Dovlatov: Identity and Nostalgia in 'The Suitcase'," delves into the intricate layers of emigrant experiences, identity struggles, and nostalgic reflections. In the first chapter, the broader themes of immigration literature are explored, focusing on travel, nostalgia, and self-definition, emphasizing the Russian perspective within and outside Russia and the historical context of Russian emigration waves. The second chapter shifts to a detailed examination of Sergej Dovlatov's life, his journey from Russia to America, and the unique traits of his prose. This section also analyses the symbolism of objects in his works, revealing how everyday items become reflective tools for exploring cultural and personal identity. Finally, the third chapter profoundly engages Russian identity in shifting geopolitical and cultural landscapes. It examines the cultural significance of objects in Soviet society and how Dovlatov's nostalgia and satire unpack a complex image of Russia, contrasting Soviet and Western viewpoints and the inherent absurdity in the mundane. This thesis offers a comprehensive insight into Dovlatov's portrayal of emigrant life, uncovering the nuanced interplay between identity, nostalgia, and cultural perception.