With the U.S. now unquestionably (pun intended) operating as an autocracy, The Bad Penny is launching a new feature series called On Tyranny, consisting of conversations with artists who are current or former residents of countries ruled by dictators (other than the U.S. and per the nonpartisan World Population Review). After more than a week of reflection, it became apparent that taking action and initiating this modest effort seemed like a healthier idea than giving up and obeying in advance.
On Tyranny, inspired by Timothy Snyder‘s book of the same name, is not intended to foster policy debates but rather facilitate artists who have lived under authoritarian regimes to educate artists who have not. With any luck, maybe some will discover ways to prepare, strategize, cope or simply find a sense of camaraderie as America’s new dictatorial regime targets artists, always one of the first groups to be assailed during times of right-wing political upheaval.
While we assemble our first proper installment of On Tyranny, here are some related articles that might catch your interest in the interim:
• “Thy Catafalque Mastermind Talks About Meaning of Life, Living Under Dictator Viktor Orbán” (12.10.24)
• “Malist Creator ‘Exhausted’ By Russia’s Invasion Of Ukraine” (9.7.24)
• “Moscow Metal Band Malist Voices Opposition to Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine” (5.15.23)
• “Faith In Metal: Orphaned Land Push For Peace In The Middle East” (9.28.10)
• “Steve Earle: ‘It’s Very Dangerous To Be Ignorant Of Islam’” (9.8.10)
Also related: “My Friend Neamah And The State Of Our Country” (9.21.24)
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