Lucia Klein Svobodová, a Slovak writer, discusses her historical novel about Czech soprano Emmy Destinn, delving into the singer's complex persona and her own writing challenges.
A new historical novel entitled 'Emmy Destinn 1' has recently been published, forming part of a planned trilogy about the legendary Czech soprano who dominated world stages. The author, Lucia Klein Svobodová, is a Slovak screenwriter, actress, and social sciences doctor, who explores not only Destinn's complicated personality but also her personal doubts faced during the book's writing. Klein Svobodová, originally from Levoča, wrote the book in Czech, reflecting her upbringing in Czechoslovakia and her lifelong reading in the language.
Having performed in various prestigious theaters such as the Astorka Korzo Theater, Studio L+S, and the Slovak National Theater, as well as in the Czech Theater Bolka Polívky, Klein Svobodová's career encompasses acting, directing, and screenwriting. She also directed the Czech-Slovak film 'Pirko' (2016), which addresses the complex fate of girls from children's homes. Her husband is producer Petr Svoboda and they have two children together.
The novel brings to light the intricate life of Emmy Destinn, a figure celebrated for her artistry but also shrouded in controversy, providing readers with a nuanced perspective on a historical personality while also revealing the author's own creative process. This literary work not only commemorates Destinn's legacy but also highlights Klein Svobodová's dedication to bringing such stories to contemporary audiences in Czech.
