Lyric Resistance:
Ukrainian Poetry of War and Hope
Over the past three years, Ukraine has emerged as a crucible for some of the world’s most vital and poignant poetry. The voices that have risen from this land, rich with history and resilience, speak to the universal human experience through the lens of their unique and harrowing circumstances. As coeditors of this special issue of The Café Review, we are honored to present a collection of Ukrainian poetry that captures the spirit and struggle of a nation at war.
This issue is dedicated to the brave people of Ukraine who are currently enduring the harsh realities of an unjust war waged by Russia. The poems whose English translations have gathered here represent a tapestry of experiences, emotions, and reflections that reveal the depth of the Ukrainian soul in these trying times. Each piece, in its distinct style, offers a window into the lives of those who are fighting not just for their homeland, but for the principles of freedom and sovereignty.
The poetry contained within these pages is a testament to the enduring power of the written word. It serves as an emotional chronicle of the current conflict, capturing moments of just indignation, profound suffering, intense patriotism, and unwavering hope. Through their verses, these poets bear witness to the pain and resilience of their compatriots, transforming their personal and collective experiences into powerful artistic and unique expressions.
The poets do not shy away from expressing their anger and frustration at the injustices inflicted upon their homeland. Their verses are a rallying cry against the tyranny of oppression, a call for justice that resonates beyond the borders of Ukraine. They challenge us to confront the moral imperatives of the conflict, reminding us of the human cost of war. They capture the sorrow of loss, the anguish of displacement, and the heartache of separation from loved ones. Yet, even in the darkest moments, there is a thread of resilience that runs through the work.
The poets’ ability to find beauty and meaning in the face of adversity is a testament to the indomitable spirit of Ukraine. Despite the horrors of war, these poets envision a future where peace and justice prevail. They remind us that even in the midst of chaos, the human spirit is capable of profound resilience and grace.
As we present this special Ukrainian issue of The Café Review, we do so with a deep sense of respect and admiration for the poets who have shared their voices with us. Their work is not only a reflection of their personal experiences but also a powerful contribution to the global conversation on war, peace, and human dignity.
The editors, Anna Halberstadt and Philip Nikolayev
June 2024
Our latest Summer 2024 Issue of The Café Review continues our mission to bring Maine poetry to the world and poetry from around the world to Maine with our latest issue, Lyric Resistence: Ukrainian Poetry of War and Hope. This issue features an interview with Marianna Kiyanovska conducted by Anna Halberstadt as well as poetry by Ukrainian poets Stansilav Belsky, Igor Bozhko, Olga Bragina, Iryna Evsa, Yehiel Fishzon, Maria Galina, Oleksandr Irvanets, Alexandr Kabanov, Lyudmyla Khersonska, Boris Khersonsky, Iya Kiva, Marianna Kiyanovska, Andrei Kostinski, Vasyl Makhno, Arkady Shtypel, Victor Solodchuk and Dasha Suzdalova. Special thanks to the translators for this issue including Tatiana Bonch–Osmolovskaya, Anna Halberstadt, Andrew Janco, Olena Jennings, Nina Kossman, Olga Livshin and Philip Nikolayev.
Artwork by Ukrainian artists Artem Andreichuk, Sofia Atlantova, Nataliia Bahatska, Svitlana Gunchenko, Olexander Klimenko, Serhii Korniievskyi, Pavlo Makedonskyi, Marianna Maslova, Vitalii Movchan, Shimon Okshteyn, Sergii Paprotskyi and Olena Samoilyk are also featured thanks to Kyiv Gallery and Tatyana Okshteyn, founder of Black & White Gallery.
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