Ukrainian Author Vitaliy Kapranov Barred from Book Arsenal Festival

Disputes at Literary Festivals

According to Главком: Ukrainian author and publisher Vitaliy Kapranov has been denied the opportunity to present his new book, 'The Great Book of Ukrainian History,' at the 'Book Arsenal' festival. This follows a separate scheduling conflict with the organizers of the 'Book Country' festival, where a presentation was planned for April 24th. Such disputes highlight the challenges authors can face in navigating Ukraine's vibrant but sometimes contentious literary scene.

Organizers of the 'Book Country' festival had allocated a Friday at 12 PM at the VDNH exhibition center for the presentation. Kapranov requested a move to Saturday, Sunday, or later in the evening, arguing that a weekday morning slot would be inconvenient for potential attendees. The organizers stated no other time was available.

"We explained that people are unlikely to come to a presentation on a weekday morning and politely asked to move it to the weekend or at least closer to the evening, but we were told there was no other time available," Kapranov noted.

Issues with Organizers

Kapranov also emphasized that he assisted the organizers during the preparation of the first festival two years ago and now feels his efforts were not appreciated.

"So this is how the organizers thanked me for the help-well, two years have passed, why remember, what's done is done. But shouldn't there be simple gratitude?"

Despite the conflict, Kapranov will be present at the 'Book Country' festival at booth K27, located to the right of the main alley on the way to the food court. "For readers, I'll clarify-'The Great Book of Ukrainian History' will be at our booth K27, to the right of the main alley on the way to the food court; turn your head and you'll see it immediately," he added.

Furthermore, Kapranov expressed outrage over his rejection from 'Book Arsenal,' stating that the organizers are hiding arbitrary decisions behind volunteers and military personnel. "They wrote that they 'received many requests from volunteer and military initiatives,' space is limited, there are many of you, so you were not selected," he stated, emphasizing that such reasoning is underhanded.

Kapranov also believes the refusal stems from his past critical remarks about the organizers, whom he accuses of selecting participants not based on quality but through corrupt schemes. "But the real reason for the refusal is that last year, during a meeting with readers, I said the organizers take too much upon themselves," he remarked.

The situation surrounding Vitaliy Kapranov underscores the difficulties authors in Ukraine can encounter when participating in cultural events. Conflicts between creative figures and festival organizers can impact literature's accessibility to a wider audience and affect the festivals' own reputations. It is important that such situations are addressed to improve communication and ensure fair conditions for all participants in the future.