"Necessary Lies" is a historical novel by Eva Stachniak set in communist Poland in the 1980s. The story follows a young woman named Zofia Turbotyńska, a government censor responsible for ensuring that literature and art comply with the strict ideological standards of the ruling party. As Zofia becomes increasingly disillusioned with her job and the oppressive regime she serves, she begins to question the true nature of censorship and the role of art in a society that values conformity over individual expression. Meanwhile, Zofia's personal life is complicated by her relationship with a dissident writer who challenges her beliefs and her loyalty to the state. The novel explores themes of political oppression, artistic freedom, and the struggle for personal and political identity in a repressive society. It has been praised for its vivid and insightful portrayal of life under communism and its exploration of the complexities of censorship and artistic expression.
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