We will not give up Petrograd. (Moore D.) Soviet Posters (1917-1941)

The composition presents a scene of resolute defense against an implied external threat. Dominating the visual field is a large, circular red form that serves as both background and symbolic weight. Superimposed upon this disc are bold Cyrillic characters proclaiming a defiant message.
Three figures, clad in crimson attire, occupy the foreground. They appear to be scaling a fortified wall, their postures conveying determination and physical exertion. The central figure, bearded and muscular, raises his arm in what could be interpreted as either a rallying cry or an act of defiance. His companions mirror this posture, reinforcing a sense of collective action and unwavering commitment.
Below the figures, the fortifications are depicted with stark simplicity – a series of rectangular blocks forming a barrier against an unseen enemy. A flag bearing horizontal stripes of red and blue is prominently displayed at the base of the wall, likely representing national identity or allegiance. The lower portion of the image shows what appears to be a stylized representation of a cityscape, punctuated by industrial chimneys that suggest a vital urban center under siege.
The color palette is deliberately limited: primarily reds, whites, and blacks. This restricted range contributes to the works graphic impact and reinforces its propagandistic function. The red hue, repeated in the figures’ clothing and the circular background, evokes themes of revolution, sacrifice, and passion. The stark black outlines contribute to a sense of urgency and drama.
Subtly embedded within the composition are layers of meaning. The act of scaling the wall suggests overcoming obstacles and resisting oppression. The industrial landscape hints at the economic importance of the location being defended. The overall impression is one of unwavering resolve in the face of adversity, intended to galvanize support for a cause and inspire resistance against an external force. The work’s style, with its simplified forms and bold colors, aligns with the aesthetic conventions of revolutionary propaganda, designed for mass consumption and immediate emotional impact.