Age, feeling and experience framing a modernist vision in Panait Istrati’s Stavro

Abstract

In Stavro, the first opening piece of Kyra Kyralina (published in 1923), the narrative focuses on the actions taken and the reactions shown or concealed by three male characters in alternation, with particular emphasis on gender, age, and experience. In between traditionally built sections and ample back-storytelling, the story addresses the key learning stances adopted by the three male characters at the end of a short trip that they complete together: reserve, reclusion and (self-)reflection. How does a modernist vision frame one’s identity against age, common social norms and openly manifested repression in small urban neighbourhoods? Can one protagonist’s understanding about his sexual orientation be genuinely shared with others? In what way does Stavro’s personal experience alienate his prospects of family life in the port of Brăila? This paper aims to decode the narrative based on modern confession, continuity versus fragmentation, sexuality and modes of memory alter(n)ation.