Fleyta pozvonochnik

work by Mayakovsky

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June 26, 2026

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"Fleyta pozvonochnik," or "The Backbone Flute," is a significant poem by Vladimir Mayakovsky, written in 1915 and published in 1916. It is considered one of his major works from the period between 1914 and 1916.1

The poem, along with "A Cloud in Trousers," reflects a tragedy of unrequited love and expresses Mayakovsky's dissatisfaction with the world around him. Mayakovsky aimed to "depoetize" poetry by using everyday language and innovative techniques, creating a declamatory style suitable for mass audiences. This work is part of Russian Futurist literature, a movement that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by a desire to break from past traditions and embrace modernity.12

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Vladimir Mayakovsky
…Cloud in Trousers”) and “Fleyta pozvonochnik” (written 1915, published 1916; “The Backbone Flute”). Both record a tragedy of unrequited love and express the author’s discontent with the world in which he lived. Mayakovsky sought to “depoetize” poetry, adopting the language of the streets and using daring technical innovations. Above…
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…Cloud in Trousers”) and “Fleyta pozvonochnik” (written 1915, published 1916; “The Backbone Flute”). Both record a tragedy of unrequited love and express the author’s discontent with the world in which he lived. Mayakovsky sought to “depoetize” poetry, adopting the language of the streets and using daring technical innovations. Above…
Read More