E.D. Miller British writer Country: Great Britain

1. The Inspiration Behind "Snowdrops"
2. Themes Explored in "Snowdrops"
3. The Impact of Living in Russia
4. Universality of the Story
5. Longing for Moscow and Russia

E.D. Miller: A British Writer's Perspective on Moscow and Russian Culture

E.D. Miller, a British writer who worked as a correspondent for The Economist in Moscow in the mid-2000s, released his novel "Snowdrops" last year. The novel was nominated for the prestigious Booker Prize and is now being translated into Russian. The story follows an English lawyer who encounters Russian criminality at both the state and personal levels, leading to his downfall. As Miller prepares to visit Moscow for a book fair, he is interviewed by Artem Lipatov of Izvestia.

The Inspiration Behind "Snowdrops"

Miller reveals that the process of writing his first book was a long and solitary endeavor. However, he had always harbored a desire to write a novel. It was living in Russia that ultimately brought "Snowdrops" to life, as the country has a way of bringing out the story inside you. The impetus for the book came from the double meaning of the word "snowdrop" - not only a flower, but also a term used in criminal and police slang to describe a corpse that emerges from the snow in spring. Miller saw this metaphor as literary and used it to shed light on the darker aspects of his protagonist's personality, which eventually come to the surface.

Themes Explored in "Snowdrops"

When asked if his book was about corruption and immorality in Russia or about these issues in general, Miller responds that his novel indeed touches upon corruption and its perception by both Russians and foreigners. However, it also delves into themes of loneliness, vulnerability, longing for meaningful connections, and the willingness to tolerate deception for the sake of love. These themes extend beyond his main character, who realizes by the end of the book that he is willing to accept anything to preserve his relationship with Masha. While the book does not have a hopeful ending, with no one being punished or feeling guilty, it offers an understanding of many aspects that are often unclear to foreigners.

The Impact of Living in Russia

Miller acknowledges that his observations are personal rather than universal experiences during his time in Russia. Although he never got involved in any criminal activities, he encountered many individuals like his character Nick, who behaved as though they were on an extended vacation in Moscow, believing that whatever happened there did not count. Miller stresses that his book cannot be considered an encyclopedia of modern Russia. He believes that many other stories, both beautiful and heroic, can be told about the country. "Snowdrops" is merely a glimpse into Moscow through the perception and experiences of a dubious expatriate.

Universality of the Story

When asked if a similar story could have taken place in another country, Miller suggests that while the details might differ, the basic elements of vulnerable individuals, unscrupulous fraudsters, and moral blindness are universal. He then poses a question in return, wondering if a Russian writer could create a novel about a criminal day in London. Miller believes that the relationship between Britain and Russia is intriguing, characterized by mutual sympathy as well as mutual suspicion. Both countries have similarities in some areas and stark differences in others, which is perhaps why British authors often write about Russia.

Longing for Moscow and Russia

Miller admits that he does miss Moscow but for different reasons than his character Nick. He longs for the life of a foreign correspondent, as writing about such a remarkable and important country was a great honor for him. He reminisces about late-night trips to dachas, buying watermelons on the way, walking along frozen rivers in winter, and the sound of night trains. Miller believes that emotions in Russia are of a different quality compared to Britain - brighter there, pale in comparison here. He misses Russian culture and occasionally finds himself listening to Vysotsky in his car. He believes that most people who have lived in Russia for a while experience similar feelings, as Russia seeps into their blood and becomes an integral part of their lives.