Information about the author: 

Abstract:

A. Platonov focused his human and creative interest on the experiences and behavior of people in extreme conditions of war. This was the “military secret” for the writer, presented by him as a multifaceted cultural and psychological phenomenon. Platonov included the soulful qualities and spiritual foundations of those fighting the enemy in the composition of the “military secret.” This secret was fueled by memory and its material embodiment, the “heart jewels” stored in the “secret” corner of soldiers’ duffel bags. It consisted in overcoming the fear of death in battle and homesickness, in loving the motherland, gaining experience in saving one’s own life and destroying the enemy, and maintaining the frontline family of commanders and combatants. The formula of the frontline brotherhood was “to share death with you and save you from death by being killed yourself.” The “military secret” was based on the idea that “a person is stronger near death,” “death is the highest matter of life,” “one cannot die uselessly.” The highest consciousness of the combatant implied that the duty of birth “must be paid with an increase,” i. e. to put down as many enemies as possible; “death in battle with the defeat of the enemy.” The mystery of the battle included sound thoughts and reasonable actions “like a master.” Platonov also saw the “military secret” in the people’s desire to live through the war. The combatants were supported by food, alcohol, tobacco, sleep, as well as love and fidelity, flirting and carnal interests.