Dmitry Bykov (born 1967, Moscow) is a Russian poet, novelist, literary critic and journalist - one of the most prolific writers in the Russian language, with some 90 books to his name, including novels, poetry collections and prize-winning biographies of Pasternak, Mayakovsky and Gorky. His satirical project 'Citizen Poet', performed with actor Mikhail Yefremov, made him a household name among Russia's educated public. Declared a foreign agent by the Kremlin in 2022 and later sentenced in absentia to seven years, he now lives in the United States, where he has taught at the University of Rochester, Cornell, Princeton and UCLA.
A Moscow court sentenced Bykov in absentia to seven years in a penal colony on charges of spreading 'false information' about the Russian military.
Russia's financial watchdog Rosfinmonitoring added Bykov to its list of terrorists and extremists on September 11, 2025.
Russian authorities placed Bykov on an international wanted list on July 28, 2025, and a Moscow court issued an in-absentia arrest warrant in August.
Bykov performed his poetry program 'Not a Word About Love' in Berlin and other German cities, presenting verse written during the war years.
Bykov was named inaugural Humanities Center Scholar in Exile at the University of Rochester, teaching courses in the Department of Modern Languages and Cultures through the 2024-25 academic year.
Russian poet and writer Dmitry Bykov offers an intimate evening of poetry and philosophical reflection in Dortmund.
An evening of poetry and conversation with acclaimed Russian writer Dmitry Bykov. A unique blend of recitation and intimate discussion at Palais Wittgenstein.
in 6 days
Russian poet and writer Dmitry Bykov presents an evening of poetry and conversation in Stuttgart.
An evening with renowned Russian writer and publicist Dmitry Bykov, featuring readings and discussion of his work.
Russian writer and critic Dmitry Bykov delivers a lecture on Harry Potter in Berlin.