Shreds of War. Vol. 2

Main Themes and Topics

In Shreds of War. Vol. 2, Ildikó Eperjesi delves into the profound impact of the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia, exploring the myriad effects on diverse sectors and communities within the peninsula. The book continues where the first volume left off, bringing light to personal and collective narratives formed in the shadow of occupation. Eperjesi, alongside Oleksandr Kachura, presents a wide array of voices, including teachers, students, pensioners, children, market vendors, and healthcare workers, all sharing their intimate experiences and disillusionments. A significant focus is directed toward the expectations and the subsequent disappointments people faced when the "Russian world" failed to fulfill its promises, highlighting issues in the banking system, state propaganda, censorship, and tourism collapse. Not merely a recount of events, the volume also examines the broader socio-political implications and individual journeys through these turbulent times, offering a critical and emotional portrayal of reality in occupied Crimea.

Writing Style and Tone

Eperjesi's writing in Shreds of War. Vol. 2 is both poignant and incisive. The narrative maintains a journalistic rigor, which is evident in the meticulously conducted interviews and firsthand accounts that serve as the backbone of the book. The tone is empathetic yet unwavering in its commitment to truth, allowing the voices of those affected by the annexation to resonate authentically and powerfully. The language is accessible, creating a bridge between the complex geopolitical issues discussed and the everyday experiences of Crimeans. Eperjesi and Kachura employ a narrative style that balances personal stories with broader sociopolitical analysis, creating a tapestry of perspectives that bring immediacy and urgency to the subject matter.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

Shreds of War. Vol. 2 plunges into the heart of Crimea during the fraught period after its annexation by Russian forces. Through the lens of personal stories and interviews, the authors depict a peninsula caught in the throes of transition and unrest. Oleksandr Kachura's courageous journey to the occupied territory and his encounters with locals provide the groundwork for this narrative. As residents recount their experiences and evolving sentiments—from hope to disappointment—the fabric of Crimean society is unraveled, revealing the profound effects of political change on individuals' lives. The book offers a rare glimpse into the complexities and contradictions of living under the new administration, capturing the voices of locals, emigrants, and notable figures like filmmaker Oleh Sentsov, who shares his harrowing tale of imprisonment and its lasting impact. It's an eye-opening exploration of resilience amidst adversity.