The dystopian narrative in Sergei Lukyanenko's novel Rough Draft

The subject of this research article is the novel "Draft" by the famous Russian science fiction writer Sergey Lukyanenko. The focus is on the place of this work in the author's creative evolution, its artistic originality, and its connection to the traditions of Russian science fiction. The article analyzes in detail the key conflict underlying the dystopian narrative of the novel: "deprivation of identity and endowment with function." The main character, Kirill, loses his social ties, past, name, and loved ones, being completely "removed" from his familiar life. Then, an anonymous System forcibly bestows upon him a new function, transforming him into a "functionary" serving parallel worlds. Additionally, the fragmented narrative structure, the organization of space through numerous parallel worlds, the hidden role of technology as a daily tool of total control, and the tragic worldview of the hero that forms the emotional core of the dystopia are explored. The study employs comparative-typological, analytical, and literary methods, as well as elements of a systemic approach to determine the place of the novel in the context of Russian science fiction. The scientific novelty of the work lies in the identification of Lukyanenko's dual innovation: first, the central conflict of "deprivation of identity and endowment with function," and second, the fragmented structure that shapes the dystopian narrative. Unlike previous studies, the article conducts a systematic comparative analysis of "Draft" with classical Soviet science fiction (the Strugatsky brothers) and contemporary context (Dmitry Glukhovsky), as well as with the "Watch" series. The author concludes that the novel marks a turning point in the writer's work, expanding the boundaries of traditional dystopia through the interiorization of crisis, anonymity of power, and individualization of narrative. The finale of the novel, where the hero finds himself, affirms the indestructible value of personality even under total control, opening new perspectives for the development of the genre

Dystopia · HERO · Narrative · Rigour · Sci-Fi · Education, Literature, Philosophy Research · Narrative Theory and Analysis · Utopian, Dystopian, and Speculative Fiction

• The Future of Dystopia

  Open Access•Mario Vrbancic•Politička misao•2022

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