Justinas Žilinskas discusses his transition from writing fantasy to a more realistic detective narrative influenced by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In an interview with Lrytas, renowned Lithuanian author Justinas Žilinskas reflects on his career as a writer known for his literature aimed at older children and teens, receiving numerous awards such as the 'Book of the Year' for teens and the Children's Literature Prize. He reveals a significant shift in his writing style, explaining how the onset of the war in Ukraine in 2022 prompted him to stop engaging with fantasy genres, as the harsh realities of the world made fictional worlds feel trivial and even a betrayal of the suffering happening nearby.
Žilinskas shares that despite his break from fantastical literature, he has gradually returned to mysterious storytelling, recognizing that fantasy itself is not the cause of the world's cruelty. He mentions that elements of detective fiction have always been part of his books, even within historical adventure narratives, suggesting that these features are essential to his creative expression. This transition highlights how real-world events can profoundly impact an artist's perspective and work.
The culmination of his experiences is evident in his latest work, where an emphasis on modern realism takes precedence. Žilinskas's journey illustrates the adaptability of writers in responding to sociopolitical events, showcasing how narratives can evolve in the shadow of real-life challenges, and the distinct ways in which literature can both reflect and respond to the urgency of contemporary issues.
