Memories beyond the Golden Dream

The object I chose is a vinyl record edited by Electrorecord, the Romanian House of Production during the communist regime, titled “Copiii României trăiesc un vis de aur” (translated as "Romanian Kids Are Living a Golden Dream"), released in January 1985. This record features songs and artistic performances interpreted by children, specifically from the communist era. It was intended to promote patriotic music and endorse the values of the communist regime.

The record serves as a cultural document from that time, reflecting how the communist government influenced education and the upbringing of children from a young age. It is a part of communist propaganda, where children played a significant role. Through its optimistic tunes, childhood was portrayed as carefree, despite the contrasting reality.

Education during the communist era emphasized discipline and obedience. Artistic activities, such as choir celebrations and theatrical events, were mandatory and closely monitored by the state. Records like this one were used as educational tools to disseminate the communist ideology and were played both in schools and at home.

In the countryside where my grandmother lived, education was viewed as a means of escaping limitations. Although children often worked alongside their parents, attending school remained a top priority.

My grandmother became a secondary school teacher, as learning was the only chance children from the rural areas had at achieving their dreams. This record was a gift from the school where she taught at that time. She used it both at home and in her class since record players were available. At home, my mother and her siblings used it to help them learn the patriotic songs they also had to recite. My grandmother held on to this vinyl as it reminded her of the moments when her children were singing together at home, filling the house with their voices. Even though she was not very fond of the message conveyed through the songs, the memories still stuck with her. This record reminds her that her family was able to stay close even in the toughest times. Although the moments are bittersweet, my mother's family is now grateful that they used such tedious activities as an opportunity to get closer as a family.

Thus, the analyzed object portrays the difference between the message promoted by the regime and the ordinary reality that people experience.

From a historical perspective, the vinyl record analyzed confirms the existence of an intense propaganda oriented to bring up children according to the communist ideology. This was strengthened after 1971 when the communist leader, Nicolae Ceaușescu, paid a visit in China and Korea. After that moment, a cult of personality dedicated to the communist leader and his wife was introduced and propaganda intensified in this area.