Alexandra Kollontai (1872-1952) was a Soviet revolutionary, functionary, and diplomat. Kollontai is perhaps most known for her contributions to dialectical materialist theory on interpersonal relationships, love, sex, and gender, though her work was multifaceted. KollontaiÕs work on Marxist feminism consistently highlights the obstacles capitalism presents to the fulfillment of human desires and full use of creative potential, and shows how socialist development provides the pathway for more well-rounded, fulfilled individuals and societies.
In her 1923 article "Make Way for Winged Eros!" published by the Komsomol, Kollontai discusses "Comradely Love" as an evolution in love, tracing the social role of love through human history. She explores Òlove as a social and psychological forceÓ, taking interest in the difference between "Winged Eros," intimate and deep relationships formed on mutual love, and "Wingless Eros,Ó relationships unburdened by emotion. She advocates for a society in which the fulfillment of interpersonal relationships reinforces the well-being of the entire society; where what is best for individual families (i.e. personally bonded humans) is best for the wider human society. Far from the caricature presented by Western media, Kollontai shows how communism stands for the diversification of love, where relationships are defined by the participants, in stark contrast to the false accusation of Òanti-monogamyÓ or Òforced polyamory.Ó
Red Love, published in 1927, shows the concepts of Winged and Wingless Eros in action through a narrative. Two young revolutionaries who fell in love must deal with the contradictions between personal and political obligations, while coming to know "Comradely Love." It is a heartwarming story tackling issues universally known to humanity.
Red Love is best read after having understood Kollontai's concepts introduced in "Make Way for Winged Eros." This edition begins with "Make Way for Winged Eros!" and ends with Red Love., Kollontai, USSR, Soviet Union, sexual politics, revolutionary lives, Alexandra Kollontai, Alexandra Kollontai| | 246PAGES