Le Socialisme non seulement ne renonce pas à la compétition ... Lénine 1974

This 1974 Soviet poster by B. Berezovsky centers on a powerful quotation from Vladimir Lenin, asserting that socialism does not eliminate competition but instead creates the conditions for it to flourish on a truly массовый (mass) scale. The message reflects a key ideological concept: that socialist society channels competition into collective progress rather than individual gain.

The visual composition is deliberately restrained and direct. A large monochrome portrait of Lenin dominates the left side, his expression calm yet resolute. Set against a bold red background—a color deeply associated with революция (revolution) and Soviet identity—the image conveys authority and continuity with the founding ideals of the state. On the right, the text of the quote appears in clean, structured typography, giving equal weight to word and image.

Unlike more dynamic propaganda posters filled with action and narrative, this work relies on simplicity and clarity. The absence of additional imagery focuses attention entirely on Lenin’s figure and his words. This minimalist approach reinforces the idea that ideology itself is the central message, requiring no embellishment.

The concept of “socialist competition” was widely promoted in the Soviet Union as a way to motivate productivity and innovation. Workers, factories, and collective farms were encouraged to surpass norms and achieve higher output, not for personal profit but for the benefit of society as a whole. In this context, competition becomes a collective инструмент (tool) rather than a divisive force.

Produced in the 1970s, the poster reflects a period when Soviet propaganda often returned to foundational figures like Lenin to reaffirm ideological legitimacy. By quoting him directly, the image links contemporary policies to revolutionary origins, suggesting continuity and correctness in the chosen path.

Stylistically, the poster demonstrates a shift toward graphic clarity and modern design. The strong contrast between black, white, and red, along with the clean layout, aligns with broader trends in late Soviet visual culture, where messaging became more streamlined and emblematic.

Ultimately, this poster transforms an abstract political idea into a clear and authoritative statement. Through the combination of Lenin’s iconic presence and a concise ideological message, it affirms that under socialism, competition is not abolished—but redefined as a force for collective achievement and societal advancement.

Original Poster

Politics - USSR - Propaganda - Russia

But on the contrary, for the first time, it creates the possibility of applying it on a large scale

Good condition, creases, small tears