Ivan Franko
Ivan Franko (1856–1916) was a Galician-born writer and political activist who both wrote prolifically and translated many foreign works into the Ukrainian language. Here is a poem about Ukraine:
My Love
She is so lovely, shining
with such a pure and holy beauty
and on her face there burns the sign
of love, sincerity, and peace.
She is so lovely, and yet
so unhappy, enduring so much misfortune
that she howls this misfortune
in the words of her everyday songs.
Once I knew her, how could I
not love her passionately
not surrender every pleasure
to give myself to her?
And once I fell in love, how could I
forget her divine image in my heart
past all patience and sorrow
even to the grave?
And how to speak of my love
that other, holy love
to all those who pour out sweat and blood
to all those chained by shackles?
No, whoever does not love all brothers
like the divine sun, all equal
such a one could not fall in love
with you, beloved Ukraine!
About the Creator
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