Andrei Platonov (born Andrei Platonovich Klimentov) was a renowned Soviet Russian novelist, short story writer, philosopher, playwright, and poet. Born on August 28, 1899, Platonov's works are known for their existential and avant-garde form, often critical of the Stalinist policies. Despite being a communist, his writings were banned during his lifetime due to their skeptical attitude towards the collectivization of agriculture and other political doctrines of the time.

Among his most famous works are the novels Chevengur (1928) and The Foundation Pit (1930). Platonov's literary career was marked by his intense period of writing between 1918-1921, during which he published numerous poems, stories, and essays across a wide array of topics, showcasing his remarkable energy and intellectual prowess.