The Red Flag

The Red Flag is the title of a book by David Priestland. I got to know about it when I read a review of the book in a newspaper. I was instantly attracted to it. I did bulk at the price of it (Rs. 1850) as I had made up my mind to read about Communism knowing how deeply we’ve been affected by it recently.

So the next day I went ahead and bought this bulky book of about 700 pages. It’s been 3 days since the purchased and I’ve spent all my free time devouring it. I’ve finished reading about 25% but suffice to say I’ve enjoyed every bit of it. If you want to know what communism is, read this book.

I want to translate the book in Nepali. I feel every Nepali should read this book and know about the benefits and the pitfalls of adopting communism. Our largest political party – the Maoists, are strongly in favor of a one-party communist rule and the people have been blinded by the favors the Maoists have promised. They (people and politicians) should read this book and decide for themselves if what the Maoists have promised can be delivered.

The book doesn’t criticize communism unduly but writes in 'a matter of fact' way what was wrong about the movement and what needs to be adapted and abandoned for it to have any success. I feel if our communist leaders and ordinary Nepali read the book, at least the brand of communism we will inherit won’t be as disastrous as it was in USSR, China and most of the countries that adopted this political system.

I want to setup up a committee and start collecting funds to translate this book. If anyone has any innovative idea or experience on doing it, please contact me.