Talks with T.G.M.

On this autumn day in 1928, two symbols of Czechoslovak democracy are at the height of their influence, as is Czechoslovakia itself. The book, which has been a year in the making and is intended to introduce the president to his nation, is finally complete. Karel Čapek seeks out President Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk in the gardens of Topoľčianky Castle. He wants to offer him a share of the royalties from their book of conversations, written to mark the 10th anniversary of the young Czechoslovak Republic. But the president is in a foul mood: his daughter has forbidden him from publishing the book. This will not be an easy encounter. Although Čapek is in a hurry, he cannot simply leave the situation unresolved and finds himself drawn into a heated debate. A debate about daughters, the world, politics and politicians, the Czech people, love, and women. Masaryk reveals that he is far more than the revered founding father of the nation or the distant, austere icon portrayed in history books. He is a man of flesh and blood. Alongside his history-shaping ideas and worldview, he reveals a talent for high-stakes political manoeuvring and even intrigue. Among other things, he speaks openly about his love affair and rediscovered sexuality. The clash between two great men from different generations has explosive potential, even though their only weapons are walking sticks and words.