Memories of Starobielsk

"Memories of Starobielsk" is an evocative narrative detailing life within a Soviet prison camp from the perspective of Józef Czapski, the seasoned author of "Inhuman Land." In September 1939, Czapski found himself interned alongside thousands of Polish officers in the Soviet prisoner-of-war camp at Starobielsk. Remarkably, he was among the few who survived the notorious Katyn massacre in April 1940. In his memoir, Czapski brings to life the stories of his fellow inmates, capturing their struggle to maintain humanity amidst dire circumstances. He portrays these men vividly, blending detailed portraits with intimate sketches that reflect both respect and familiarity. His essays delve into art, history, and literature, underscoring Czapski's enduring connection to Russian culture. Particularly lyrical and insightful are his writings on painting, penned during a train journey from Moscow to the strategic base of the Second Polish Army in Central Asia. These reflections showcase his profound engagement with art. Authored by Józef Czapski and edited by Alissa Valles, this work was published by The New York Review of Books, Inc. in 2022. It features a softcover with 144 pages, measuring 12.9 x 20.3 x 1.8 cm. The book is written in English, bearing the ISBN 9781681374864.