Story perspectives

Russian Forest: Heart of National Identity and Resistance

1/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Sophie Pinkham, author, argues the vast Russian forest—home to about 642 billion trees—shapes national identity.
It portrays the forest as a backdrop for resistance and military strategy.
Pinkham highlights connections to Pushkin and Tolstoy, inspired by the forest.
The forest's dual nature offers nourishment and danger.
Despite deforestation and climate change, understanding the ecosystem is crucial to grasping Russia's land-and-people relationship.

1 of 1

Story summary

Sophie Pinkham, author, argues the vast Russian forest—home to about 642 billion trees—shapes national identity.
It portrays the forest as a backdrop for resistance and military strategy.
Pinkham highlights connections to Pushkin and Tolstoy, inspired by the forest.
The forest's dual nature offers nourishment and danger.
Despite deforestation and climate change, understanding the ecosystem is crucial to grasping Russia's land-and-people relationship.