This text is an analysis of the ways in which "glasnost" has affected the lives of Soviet citizens, examining current Soviet writings. It represents an attempt to give the non-specialist reader some notion of what has happened in the Soviet cultural scene in recent years. It covers not only literature, but also developments in history, law, the social sciences and new frankness on issues such as nationalism, religion, women, corruption and others. The authors contrast these changes with past bans, taboos and silences. This is not a speculative book about Soviet society and its future, but rather an inside look at "glasnost".