Deep Dive
Why did Daniel Kalder initially become interested in dictator literature?
Kalder's interest began when he encountered the Rukh Nama, a book by Turkmen dictator Turkmenbashi, which he found both terrible and fascinating. This led him to explore the idea that dictator books were not just a dead tradition but a living, bizarre phenomenon.
What was the significance of the Rukh Nama in Turkmenistan?
The Rukh Nama was central to Turkmenistan's culture under Turkmenbashi. It was displayed in mosques, on mountains, and even in Russian Orthodox cathedrals. It was a compulsory read, with citizens needing to pass tests on it to obtain driver's licenses.
How did Daniel Kalder feel about reading dictator literature?
Kalder found the experience more enjoyable in retrospect than during the process. He described it as a literary endurance test, with much of the material being atrocious. However, the challenge appealed to him in his younger years.
Which dictator's book did Daniel Kalder find the most readable?
Kalder found Mussolini's War Diary the most readable. It was short, had a narrative arc, and provided a real sense of being in the trenches during World War I, despite not being a great literary work.
How did dictators use their books to maintain power?
Dictators often used their books as tools of compulsion, requiring citizens to read and study them. In Turkmenistan, the Rukh Nama was mandatory for passing driver's tests, and in the Soviet Union, there were compulsory classes in Leninism.
What unique aspect did Saddam Hussein's novel Zabiba and the King have?
Zabiba and the King was unique because it felt like a portal into Saddam's mind, showing his vulnerability and paranoia. It also contained surreal and gratuitous scenes, such as a digression about having sex with bears, which provided insight into his psyche.
Why did Saddam Hussein write novels towards the end of his regime?
Towards the end of his regime, Saddam felt embattled and paranoid. Writing novels became a way for him to express himself and explore his thoughts on statecraft and religion. He was reportedly still working on his last novel as American tanks closed in.
What was the significance of Saddam Hussein's Quran written in his blood?
Saddam's Quran written in his blood was a grotesque propaganda tool that also reflected his search for a historical legacy. It symbolized his religiosity and his desire to leave a lasting impact, despite the regime's instability.
Which dictator's book did Daniel Kalder recommend for those curious about dictator literature?
Kalder recommended Mussolini's War Diary as a relatively short and readable entry point for those curious about dictator literature. He advised against reading most other dictator books, which he described as arduous and consequential.