Vladimir Zlobin Russian poet and critic Date of Birth: 01.01.1894

1. Early Life and Education
2. The Merezhovskys and Exile
3. Literary Contributions
4. The Green Lamp and Literary Legacy

Early Life and Education

Mikhail Zlobin, a prominent Russian poet and critic, was born into an affluent merchant family. His father's departure from family and business, embarking on a wandering journey across Russia, left a significant impact on his upbringing.

Zlobin pursued his education at the University of St. Petersburg, where he became actively involved in student literary circles, contributing to Larisa Reissner's journals "Bohema" and "Rudin."

The Merezhovskys and Exile

In 1916, Zlobin's life took a fateful turn when he met the writer duo Zinaida Gippius and Dmitry Merezhkovsky.Their friendship evolved into an inseparable bond that lasted until their final departure from Russia in 1919.

After a brief sojourn in Warsaw, the trio settled in Paris in 1921, sharing an apartment and collaborating on literary projects.

Literary Contributions

Zlobin's literary career flourished alongside his service as the Merezhovskys' secretary and archivist.His astute artistic sensibilities were evident in his literary criticism, where he championed Russian authors.

As a poet, Zlobin drew inspiration from personal experiences and dreams.His verse explored spiritual themes, invoking motifs of death, the soul, and the divine. Celestial and earthly love, along with the afterlife and the connection with the departed, became prevalent in his work. The imagery in his poetry exhibited traces of symbolism, linking it to cosmic and transcendental themes.

The Green Lamp and Literary Legacy

In 1927, Zlobin took on the role of secretary for Gippius's literary salon, the Green Lamp.This position immersed him in the vibrant cultural scene of Russian émigré literature.

Zlobin's work left a lasting mark on the literary landscape.His astute insights, thoughtful criticism, and evocative poetry cemented his place as a significant figure in Russian literature.