Down with drunkards! Declare loudly. From drunkards only hooliganism and breakage (Yang I., Chernomordik A.) Soviet Posters (1917-1941)

The composition presents a forceful visual argument against intoxication, employing stark contrasts and dynamic imagery to convey its message. The central figure is a man contorted in a posture suggesting both physical struggle and mental distress. His face, rendered with exaggerated features, displays an expression of anguish or perhaps rage, further emphasizing the negative consequences associated with alcohol consumption. He appears to be caught within the machinery dominating the left side of the frame.
This industrial apparatus – a complex arrangement of pipes, valves, and gears – is not merely a backdrop but seems to actively restrain or overwhelm the man. The bright yellow light emanating from it creates an unsettling glow, highlighting his struggle and contributing to the overall sense of confinement. This juxtaposition suggests that intoxication is a force as powerful and potentially destructive as industrial machinery.
The color palette reinforces this message. Dominant shades of red evoke feelings of danger and urgency, while black provides a stark contrast, intensifying the visual impact. The text blocks, positioned diagonally across the upper portion of the composition, are rendered in bold white lettering, ensuring immediate visibility and reinforcing the propagandistic nature of the work. The lower block reiterates the core message: From drunkards – hooliganism and breakage.
The artist’s choice to place a man within this industrial setting is significant. It implies that intoxication is not merely a personal failing but a societal problem, one that disrupts order and productivity. The overall effect is one of controlled chaos – a deliberate attempt to shock the viewer into recognizing the perceived dangers of alcohol abuse and promoting social responsibility. The work’s aesthetic aligns with the visual language of propaganda, utilizing simplified forms and bold statements to convey its message directly and effectively.