Akunin will not go to Putin

The writer Boris Akunin (Grigory Chkhartishvili) refused to participate in the Russian literary assembly due to the fact that Vladimir Putin will be present at him.

Akunin considers the convocation of the Russian literary assembly a big event for the book world. “The authorities finally recognized Russian literature as an important matter, promises state support. He wants to listen to the opinion of writers, ”Akunin wrote on his blog today, November 20.

He also received an invitation, promised to think. “My thoughts ended when I found out that Vladimir Putin was going to come to the meeting - either to speak or even preside. - says the writer. “If so - without me, please.”

Akunin is ready to discuss with Putin “The themes of literature and reading after all the“ political ”are released. <...> So far there are political prisoners in the country, to be near the ruler, just even in one room with him, I can’t. ”

The Russian literary assembly will be held on Thursday, November 21, at the Moscow University of Friendship of Peoples.

It is reported that Putin will preside the plenary meeting and announce serious decisions of the federal authorities, which are designed to influence the future of Russian literature.

PS Press Secretary of Vladimir Putin Dmitry Peskov commented on Slon.ru Boris Akunin's refusal.

“I do not understand who he has in mind by political prisoners. Arrested in the "swamp business"? - said Peskov. - But they are not political prisoners in any way, they pass through hooliganism and violence against employees of law enforcement agencies. This has nothing to do with politics. ”

“This is a very famous and respected writer. Of course, he has the right to his own point of view. But we also have the right to say that his point of view is not related to reality, ”the spokesman concluded.