Angela Brintlinger, Ohio State University, USA

What are you researching at the moment? 

A phenomenon called “Kvas Patriotism” as reflected in Russian literature. Also the representation of war in the films of Sergei Loznitsa. 

What is your go-to website for news and analysis? 

Meduza (particularly the podcasts that show an “internal” independent-thinking Russia) 

Do you have a writing routine? 

Best is to read and gather notes, then go to a college library space where I turn off my cell phone and wifi and organize my thoughts on the computer. 

What was the worst advice you have been given? 

Stay away from urban areas (from my father, but I ignored him!) 

Have you ever been inspired by a student? If so, how? 

I am humbled when I see how my students turn out, especially those who work in NGOs. 

Name one thing that you would do if you were not a professor? 

I could work for a newspaper, I think. 

Describe Balkan in three words 

Warm, clever, complicated! 

Would you share with us something you would never put in your CV? 

Studied abroad as a 16 year old one summer in Brazil