The Metatext Function in V. Aksenov’s “Moscow Saga” Novel

Summary V. Aksenov’s “Moscow Saga” is a multifaceted novel that blends postmodern elements into a realistic narrative. The author introduces “intermissions,” which are sections that interrupt the main plot. Some of these intermissions draw from contemporary media, highlighting the reality of the events. They contrast with mythopoetic tales called “intermissions of incarnations.” There are fifteen such tales, each reflecting plot details. The first fourteen are separate chapters, and the final one appears in the epilogue. All incarnated images are in connection with the history of the Gradov family and represent the links of the same chain, which explains the past and anticipates the future. The intermissions create a single semantic space in the novel. This paper aims to show how Aksenov develops a unique artistic reality by anthropomorphizing events and figures from Russian history and literature.