Andrei Bely, a renowned prose writer, poet, critic, and playwright, was born in 1880 and died in 1934. He was one of the leading theorists of symbolism and experienced complex periods in Russian history, including the 1905 revolution, World War I, the October revolution, and the Civil War, which reflected in his life and work. Bely created unique works in the form of lyrical rhythmized prose.

The writer's real name was Boris Nikolaevich Bugayev. He was born in Moscow on October 26, 1880, into the family of a mathematician, from whom he inherited a love for the exact sciences. His father hoped that his son would follow in his footsteps, but Boris chose his own path.

A capable boy studied at the Moscow gymnasium of L. I. Polivanov, where his love for literature emerged. He was influenced by the Solovyov family, known historians and philosophers. The philosophy of Nietzsche, Schopenhauer, as well as an interest in Buddhism and occultism, played an important role in his search for a new worldview.

Andrei Bely graduated from the natural sciences department of the physics and mathematics faculty of Moscow University and later studied at the historical and philological faculty. However, he believed that mathematics only systematizes life and never worked in his specialty, preferring creativity.

His early works were enthusiastically received by philosophers and symbolists but rejected by critics. Bely created a new literary genre, 'symphonies,' rhythmized prose. In 1902, 'Symphony (2nd, dramatic)' was published, which elicited mixed reactions from the public and critics but delighted the symbolists.

During this time, Bely wrote programmatic articles such as 'Forms of Art,' 'On Theurgy,' and 'Symbolism as a Worldview.' Then his first novel 'The Silver Dove' was published, dedicated to the relationship between the intelligentsia and the people.

One of Bely's major works was the novel 'Petersburg,' written between 1911 and 1914, which had a significant impact on Russian literature.

Before the 1917 revolution, the writer mostly lived abroad, in Germany and Switzerland, where under the influence of anthroposophy, he wrote poems for the collection 'Star.' He perceived World War I as a catastrophe of Western culture and returned to Russia on the eve of the February revolution.

The October revolution initially filled him with hope, and he actively participated in literary life, working in Soviet institutions and giving lectures. From 1918 to 1921, Bely engaged in a vigorous literary activity, created the 'Wolfila' community, and actively worked with young poets.

As a result, his activity bore fruit: Bely became a significant figure in Russian literature. After the Civil War, he began to be published, but then he left for Germany. In 1923, he returned to Russia, but his work was not accepted by the communists.

Bely's biography includes two marriages. He was first married to Anna Turgeneva, a relative of I. S. Turgenev, but their marriage was short-lived. His second wife was K. N. Vasilieva, who influenced his return to Russia. Bely had no children.

Andrei Bely died on January 8, 1934, from several strokes caused by a sunstroke. Over time, his work became more recognized and valued in society than during his lifetime.