The book does not include the scientific, widely known works of V. Ya. Propp (1895–1970), the greatest folklorist, one of the classics of the humanities of the 20th century, but his literary works, part of the epistolary heritage and the diary of the last years of his life. Published for the first time The autobiographical story “The Tree of Life,” poetry and correspondence with friend V. S. Shabunin reveal the origins of the formation and development of an extraordinary personality, the formation of the multifaceted interests of V. Ya. Propp, whose research had a strong influence on world philological science. “The Diary of Old Age,” striking in its openness and sincerity, reflects the moral experiences of the current and past life, the uncompromising scientific positions, and the spiritual nobility of a remarkable scientist. The Appendix contains memories of V. Ya. Propp of his colleagues and students.