An illiterate child is a shame for the mother (Gromitsky I.) Soviet Posters (1917-1941)

The composition presents a stark visual argument concerning education and societal responsibility. A young boy, positioned centrally and rendered in darker tones, is depicted holding a book, his posture suggesting reluctance or perhaps shame. He is flanked by two adults – presumably workers – who gesture towards him with an air of admonishment and encouragement. Their attire, including caps and work clothes, signifies their role as representatives of the collective, embodying the ideals of Soviet labor.
The background features a woman in a vibrant yellow dress, seemingly recoiling from the boy’s presence. Her posture conveys a sense of distress or embarrassment, reinforcing the central theme of parental responsibility and the perceived disgrace associated with illiteracy. The stark contrast between her bright clothing and the darker tones used for the boy amplifies this emotional dynamic.
The color palette is dominated by reds and yellows, evoking feelings of urgency and warning. The red background serves to isolate the figures and intensify the message’s impact. A block of text runs along the bottom edge, presumably containing a didactic statement regarding literacy and its importance within the Soviet system.
Here we see an attempt to leverage emotional appeal in promoting education. The artist utilizes symbolic gestures and contrasting imagery to convey a clear moral imperative: that parental failure to ensure their child’s literacy is a source of shame. The work functions as both a social commentary and a call to action, intended to motivate parents and reinforce the states commitment to universal education. The overall effect is one of persuasive propaganda, designed to instill a sense of obligation within the viewer.