The Soviet Antarctic Expedition: A Memoir of Survival and Propaganda

Recently, while reading through various books on the intriguing subject of the Antarctic, I stumbled upon the memoir of Estonian writer Juhan Smuul titled Antarctica Ahoy!. This book has enthralled me with its unique blend of polar travelogue and Cold War propaganda. In this article, I will explore the fascinating history behind the Soviet Antarctic Expedition and the literary work of Smuul.

Background of the Soviet Antarctic Expedition

The Antarctica Ahoy! is a representation of the Soviet Antarctic Expedition of 1957-1958, which was a significant event during the International Geophysical Year (IGY). The IGY, a global scientific endeavor, aimed to promote international cooperation in scientific research. Interestingly, the Soviets were among the major participants in these activities, with a strong presence in Antarctica.

The Writer and His Background

Antarctica Ahoy! offers a unique perspective as it is written by Juhan Smuul, an Estonian writer who was an active member of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. Smuul's literary career saw him win prestigious awards, including the Stalin Prize in 1952 and the Lenin Prize in 1961, for his book Jine raamat (The Frozen Book). This book, later translated into English as Antarctica Ahoy!, provides a compelling blend of historical and literary insights into the expedition.

Content and Style of the Book

The book is more than just a travelogue; it is a cold war propaganda piece. Smuul uses his writing to highlight the prowess of Soviet science and technology, often highlighting them as equal to or even superior to Western efforts. His descriptions of encounters with British and American ships are particularly noteworthy. Smuul often emphasizes the danger and hostility of Western nations while highlighting the cooperative spirit of the Soviet Union.

For instance, while passing a British aircraft carrier, Smuul describes it menacingly and reminds readers that certain governments are "seeking to plunge the world once again into war," urging readers to consider how peace-loving the masses are. He further criticizes himself for signing a statement in support of certain "unhappy elements" during the voyage, realizing that as a writer assigned by Pravda to the trip, it was not his place to do so.

Publication and Design of the Book

The book is a product of the Foreign Languages Publishing House in Moscow. The typesetting is less-than-optimal, with a thick and acidic paper stock, and photographs that show obvious heavy retouching. These visual elements provide a glimpse into the printing techniques and cultural significance of the era.

Personal Highlights and Insights

My favorite part of the book is a section where, soon after their ship arrives, the Soviet team is visited by members of the Japanese expedition. These unexpected connections are highly intriguing and bridge the gap between narratives from different books. It is a testament to the unexpected moments of cooperation during a period of intense Cold War tensions.

Another surprising element is the mention of American meteorologists who resided and worked at the main Soviet base. This juxtaposition of cooperation and conflict aligns with the overarching theme of the IGY, a remarkable display of international collaboration against the backdrop of the Cold War.

Conclusion

Antarctica Ahoy! is not just a work of literary fiction but a historical document that offers valuable insights into the Soviet Union's presence in Antarctica during the IGY. Its blend of polar exploration, political propaganda, and personal narrative provides a unique perspective on the era. The book serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between science, politics, and literature during a pivotal time in history.