Sport narratives and provincial urban space in Russian contemporary literature

This article investigates the interplay between sport and provincial urban space in contemporary Russian prose, focusing on works by Roman Senchin, Dmitrii Danilov, and Alisa Ganieva from the 2010s. The study examines the representation of Soviet-era sport in narratives set in modern provincial towns, highlighting how these sport narratives serve as a medium to explore various forms and aspects of nostalgia within the urban context. The research delves into the multifaceted relationship between sport and the city, considering personal memories, local cultural phenomena, and broader societal and national levels. This multi-scalar approach provides new perspectives and analytical tools for rethinking provincial spaces and conceptualizing nostalgia. The retrospective portrayal of sport in provincial settings is linked to broader societal and cultural issues, while also resonating with deeply personal experiences. This double exposure enhances our understanding of the role of provincial towns in contemporary Russian literature.