ABSTRACT
The attempt to bring all aspects of Soviet life under state control was no more powerfully felt than in the arts. The Stalin regime sought to use artists and writers to mobilise the population to fulfil its directives, and had little patience with those who believed in the unique creative vision of each individual. Yet, the state's struggle to bring the arts into line brought it into conflict with some of the most brilliant and memorable personalities of the Stalin era. This conflict led to some remarkable creative achievements.
