We have to hope for the future of Ukraine, especially that peace can come very soon and with it compassion from all sides …
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| St Sofia's Cathedral, Kiev |
I have been wondering what to post for a week now – but need to do a penultimate #WATWB post … the regular postings will discontinue after March, but I may well carry on in some format …
I'm posting on positive aspects of Ukraine – its literature, music and art, culinary traditions … to give an overview of parts of their culture – encouraging you to look further.
Years ago I first came across “A Short History of Tractors in Ukraine” - the hilarious and award winning debut novel by Marina Lewycka …
I love the cover image where the title is set out using depictions of gear wheels, nuts, bolts, spanners, etc … my first, and so far, only Ukrainian novel.
A friend mentioned Mussorgsky's “Great Gate of Kiev” … a wonderful resonating composition inspired by folklore – an amazing listen.
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| Hartmann's design for the entrance to the Ukrainian city of Kiev |
Mussorgsky was inspired to compose his suite 'Pictures at an Exhibition' after touring the exhibition of 400 works by the artist Victor Hartmann. Hartmann's early death at 39 shocked Mussorgsky along with others in Russia's art world.
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| Cossack Mamay, playing a kobza |
Cossack Mamay is encountered in legends, folk stories and proverbs … and is today one of the most enduring characters in Ukrainian folk painting.
As you might expect I have to include culinary arts … I heard an interview with the London-based Ukrainian chef, food writer and food stylist, Olia Hercules … which sent me to find out more.
She had commented that Kiev was a beautiful bustling European city full of young inspirational and energetic peoples … and if she'd been there at the weekend … she'd have been going to Kanapa restaurant where they serve modern Ukrainian-European dishes … she mentioned one: Bortscht made with smoked pears from the Poltava region in central Ukraine.
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| Ukrainian Bortscht |
She was so concerned saying that the people suffering were just regular people: like us …
The humanitarian needs are enormous … the bordering countries have immediately set up way-stations for food and water on arrival, tents, then warehouses providing essentials … ranging from medical assistance, care packages, day-to- day items … even to offering jobs, accommodation, car transport …
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| The Kind Angel of Peace, Ukraine, located in Donetsk |
… even a midwife and psychologist have made themselves available …
The cities in Ukraine are taking a battering – poor, poor people … I cannot imagine what their lives must be like.
Their President and government are being extraordinarily thoughtful and inspirational – an example for many.
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| One of their symbols ... great fields of them grow in their central region |
The Ukrainians do not deserve this – their normal outlook of happiness, optimism, honesty, desiring peace is being sorely tried …
I just wanted this post to have some positivity in it – and now I want to find out more about the country, which I'm doing and will continue to do …
However, I thought posting a copy of this image was appropriate for today's post …
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| The Reconciliation |
Josefina De Vasconcellos said:
"The sculpture was originally conceived in the aftermath of the War. Europe was in shock, people were stunned. I read in a newspaper about a woman who crossed Europe on foot to find her husband, and I was so moved that I made the sculpture. Then I thought that it wasn't only about the reunion of two people but hopefully a reunion of nations which had been fighting."
We are the World Blogfest
In Darkness, Be Light
Peace and Compassion for Ukraine
Links: The Great Gate of Kiev - magnificent to hear (6 mins)
Pictures at an Exhibition (36 minutes)
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters Inspirational Stories
51 comments:
Great choice :) Pictures at an Exhibition was made up of separate pieces created by one of my late mother's favourite Russian composers, Mussorgsky. My knowledge of Russian language is limited to foods and drinks, but from her I was offered quite a good education in Russian literature, music and theatre.
Hopefully you won't end your regular postings after March.
Positivity and the people of Ukraine. Excellent post. It comes down to people, and that includes the regular Russians too -people trying to live and raise families. We shall see what happens. Thanks for this post
It is sobering to contemplate, Hilary, that one madman can bring the world to the point of annihilation. The people of Ukraine deserve the support and sympathy of the entire world, but we are witnessing the bizarre spectacle of a former president of the United States, and his sycophantic platoon of Republican senators and congressman coming out in open support of a tyrant's invasion of a peaceful country. In Canada we have a large population of people with Ukrainian roots; the current president of our nature club is of Ukrainian origin. I will see her tonight, and can only imagine the emotional turmoil she must be experiencing now. A celebration of Ukrainian food, culture and music is all well and good, but if there is no longer a country to celebrate and perpetuate it, it will be up the the people of the diaspora to keep it alive. I do not have great hope that this affair is going to turn out well.
That statue and its story is so fitting.
Ukraine is full of tough people all right.
Hari OM
A fine post, Hilary, to acknowledge the depth and breadth of Ukrainian culture. Difficult times... and I read here too that you are preparing to depart regular blogging. A sadness for your readers. YAM xx
Just answering Yam's comment - no I'll still be blogging ... H
I understand the use of sanctions to bring a rogue government to its knees...but it makes me sad to know that the average citizens are the real victims.
Such a terrible time. So many people have stepped up to help.
A bloody good post
This is a perfect and beautiful post Hilary. My heart broke when I first heard what was happening. To be honest, I am ashamed to say that although i have a few online an IRL Ukrainian friends who have shared a bit of their culture with me, I knew very little about the country itself. In watching how they are handling themselves, through what must be hell on earth at the moment, I am so incredibly impressed and respect them. I hope and pray all ends well and peace is restored soon. Thank you so much for your continued support and participation in #WATWB, it is truly all of the dedicated bloggers, such as yourself, who are responsible for making this happen for as long as it did. Hope you have a wonderful week and I look forward to your next post.
This is a very interesting post, Hilary and quite appropriate at this time. I hope we return to a simpler status of mistrust than open warfare.
I have been to Ukraine, 50 years ago, but I still recall their culture and pride. My prayers are with them.
So #WATB is ending? That's sad. It was a bright spot each month.
@ Hels - thank you ... so pleased you recognised "Pictures at an Exhibition" ... thank goodness a friend recommended Mussorgsky. I know little but have recently bought a book of short stories by the classic authors - which will be interesting.
Thank you ... I'll be around blogging for a while ... I just wanted to take time out to read for a while - but looks like I'll be here!
@ Joanne - yes it does come down to the people ... and I hope there will not be too many casualties ... and that Ukraine remains strong ... Appreciate you enjoyed the post ...
@ David - it is I agree sobering ... but I have hope and as you say the people of Ukraine deserve all the support and sympathy they are receiving.
Interesting your nature club has a president from Ukrainian and as you imply she will be really worried about the situation. I know Canada is a melting pot of nationalities.
Ukraine has a long history and its culture is intrinsic in that history ... it was also very interesting to write up ... we can only hope that it is short lived. I hope so.
@ Alex - thanks ... it's an image I've used before ... but felt it was right for this post. Ukrainians are standing proud ... amazing people.
@ Yam - thank you ... I wanted to put up something more positive - even if we only learn from it. I'm not off blogging - I'll be here ... just felt I needed to take a bit of time out to do a few things and some reading ... but looks like I'll be here!
@ Kathy - yes ... it's the locals who are the victims - so so true: good to see you ...
@ Liz - thankfully so many have stood up to help, as best they can in the circumstances ...
@ Jo-Anne - thank you ...
@ Belinda - I also knew little about the country - so felt I needed to go this route for the penultimate post ... I had to write something about Ukraine - hence this route ... and I've learnt a little.
It's been a pleasure being part of #WATWB for the past five years ... I think I was there for nearly the whole of it ... but I may continue on in some small way ...
@ Dan - thank you ... I'm glad you think I went along the right path with this ... and like you I sincerely hope it will be over soon - just plain hoping.
@ Jacqui - did you really go to Ukraine 50 years ago - what a trip that must have been ... and can understand you recalling their culture and pride - so excellent to know about - thank you.
Yes #WATWB is ending next month ... understandably - five years is a long time ... I only blog - so have been happy to participate. I'm fairly certain I'll carry on in some format or other ... so my posts will appear in April onwards.
Thanks so much to you all for understanding this 'odd #WATWB post' - but I've learnt a great deal ... more to learn though ...
I hope tonight is not appalling for Kiev - all the very best - Hilary
Thank you for giving me some insight into the Ukrainian culture, Hilary! I've been so stricken by what's happening there. The Reconciliation sculpture was the perfect ending to the post...and I so hope there's peace there soon.
That reconciliation sculpture is beautiful and appropriate today and for many other harsh situations. I appreciate this post.
Thank you for this thoughtful and thought-provoking post, Hilary. I love the final photo of the sculpture that you included. It is very moving.
This is a wonderful post to the culture and to the people of Ukraine who have endured many hardships. Since my mom created Faberge style eggs and also created Ukrainian eggs which I did some too, I think of the Ukrainian eggs that so many ladies have done and expertly, not like mine. I found out that the cat cafe in Lviv ( I think I spelled this right) has stayed open because the owners can not leave the 20 cats behind. They have remained. It’s a scary time for sure but this Napoleon wanna be must be slapped down. He needs to be held accountable for all the crimes he has done..Puddin’ I am speaking about here. I am praying the beautiful architecture and art will not be destroyed,
@ Elizabeth - thank you ... it just seemed a better subject for a post than a complete melt-down on my behalf ... it's so awful for the Ukrainian innocent residents. I'm glad I remembered the Reconciliation sculpture ...
@ Terra - yes I thought the sculpture was perfect for today ... and am glad to see others think so too ...
@ Donna - thank you so much ... and I'm happy someone else who thinks the sculpture is appropriate and moving for the times ...
@ Birgit - oh I'm so pleased to see you have some links to the Ukraine culture ... I note the Faberge family actually were originally French, before they moved eastwards. Creating an Ukrainian egg must take some work ... I so admire those who make them and you for giving them a go: they are beautiful.
I'd sort of heard about the Cat Cafe in Lviv ... and now yes I see you're right. It is dreadful and I so feel for the Ukrainians ... while the megalomaniac must be dealt with ... I do so hope quickly and without more bloodshed.
Thank you for accepting this post - I sincerely hope today isn't too monstrously bloody for the Ukrainians ... Hilary
I only know Ukraine from some of the gymnasts they have produced. It is good to see how so many countries are helping them.
Well done, Hils. Well done.
I read The Short History of Tractors in Ukraine some years ago and enjoyed it. I was introduced to Pictures at an Exhibition at school when the music teacher played both the Mussorgsky and the Emerson, Lake and Palmer versions. I think she expected us all to find the former a revelation and forsake ELP! Sadly, she was disappointed. Now I’d definitely go for Mussorgsky. Agree what is going on right now is tragic - and terrifying.
Thank you for this, Hilary. I haven't seen much written on the blogs about the invasion. Mine was written in anger, yours sheds a wonderful light on the culture of Ukraine, something most of us know little about. It was thought that the Swedish vikings founded Kiev, but this has perhaps turned out to be a legend, not a fact. Their flag has the same colors as ours, well not ours, but Sweden's, and for some weird reason, I've always felt a connection.
@ Diane - that's good to know that you've met some Ukrainians ... and I'm thankful countries are stepping up to help ... just very tragic about Ukraine itself ...
@ Sandra - thank you ... I felt something needed to be posted ...
@ Anabel - I enjoyed The Tractors story - a fun one. I hadn't come across the Pictures at an Exhibition before, but definitely knew the Mussorgsky piece - and in writing this I've learnt a lot. I listened to the Emerson Lake and Palmer version and decided it was not for me ... your comment made me laugh: how over the years our 'tastes' change ...
@ Inger - thank you ... I knew you'd be interested ... and Sweden is your country, as well as your adopted one.
I found these sentences in Wiki - so I'm sure Swedish vikings improved the present day new country area of Ukraine ...
"In general it is believed that Kievan Rus' included the central, western and northern part of modern Ukraine, Belarus, the far eastern strip of Poland and the western part of present-day Russia. According to the Primary Chronicle the Rus' elite initially consisted of Varangians from Scandinavia"
As you mention you both have the same colours in your flags ... it's not surprising you feel a draw to Ukraine ... it's part of eastern Scandinavia.
Thanks to the four of you ... it is just appalling and horrific to hear and see what is happening in the country now. We just desperately need peace for Ukraine - Hilary
Thanks so much, Hilary! A timely and informative post. It's shocking that war is again being raged by a power-hungry megalomaniac. My heart breaks for the people of Ukraine, but their resilience is admirable. It's heartening to see the world uniting against Putin's tyranny.
Isn't that cathedral beautiful?
Hoping they are soon on the other side of this with their liberty intact.
Cheers,
The History of Tractors sounds like a fun book!
Thanks for infusing some positivity in a very dismal situation.
What's happened in Ukraine is awful and unfair. I so hope there's a peaceful resolution soon.
Hi Hilary, a great post.
Prayers and positivity for Ukraine.
'A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian' is one of my favourite books. Truly hilarious! It's one of those rare books where the title is also the title of a book within the story.
Incidentally, my maternal grandparents came from Kiev as teenagers early last century.
CLICK HERE for Bazza’s enormously escapist Blog ‘To Discover Ice’
Such a wonderful post, Hilary. Powerful and poignant. Heartlights here are on for Ukraine!
I can't begin to imagine what they are going through. I hope and pray it ends soon.
The statue is touching on its own, the story behind it, making it even more so. I join you in feeling for Ukraine.
It is terrible what's going on. So many places have people that are repressed or vanquished. For what? Did the entire world not go through enough over the last two years? (Pretty sure we're still in that pandemic mess, to be honest.) Adding in a war? Seriously, for what? How was it concluded that invasion could possibly be a good idea? Maybe we need to require IQ and mental health tests before allowing people to be in high office power of any country? I don't know.
Hope you're having a great day! My latest blog post has my theme for the April #AtoZChallenge (I'm writing speculative fiction and looking for prompts).
At Operation Awesome we have the #PassOrPages query contest going on (friends or enemies to lovers Romance).
Looks like I'll be very busy the next few weeks!
March quote: "Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do." - Mark Twain
@ Debbie - thank you ... I felt a more informative post was better than dwelling on the horrors ... and thankfully the world does seem to be pulling together against Putin ...
@ Sandra - yes the Cathedral is stunning ... so I hope it is not bombed; more importantly I hope Ukraine survives ...
@ Sherry - the Short History of Tractors is a delightful read. I'm glad you appreciated the post ... just so terrible for the Ukrainians ...
@ Patsy - so do I ... it's dreadful to hear about - cruel beyond belief ...
@ Nas - thank you ... as you rightly say prayers and positivity for Ukraine ...
@ Bazza - oh that's great to read one of your favourite books is A Short History of Tractors ... and of course I'd forgotten the story within it - thanks for the reminder ...
How interesting to know your grandparents came from Kiev ... Ukraine has so much going for it ... I'm sure you've lots of backstory from your grandparents ... I feel for the country and Ukraine lovers now ...
@ Diedre - thank you ... I'm pleased you enjoyed its informative approach ...
@ Lynda - yes I so agree - thinking about their lives right now takes me back to post-WW2 ... not at all easy and we're watching or listening all the time ...
@ Rosey - I'm pleased I remembered the sculpture - it evokes so much for me ... and is appropriate for today when seeing what is happening in Ukraine ...
@ JL - I agree it's a mess and more so - as there is no-one to whom the leader can be held accountable to as he leads ...
Thanks so much for visiting everyone and broadening our view of Ukraine ... with thoughts that this appalling war can be over soon - the exit is always difficult. Peace for Ukrainians - Hilary
That statue says everything.
It's so difficult see parts of Ukraine destroyed by a monster. I'm still praying for the precious people and country of Ukraine.
Teresa
@ Lee - in reply to your comment on my earlier post: "One thing that Putin has done is put Ukraine culture upfront and foremost in the minds of the world. I knew about Ukraine, but now I'm listening to their music, attending to their history. I might not have done so without Mr. Putin's ill-advised and very stupid invasion."
Interesting how many of us have become interested in the Ukrainian way of life ...
@ Teresa - it is very difficult to see the destruction being caused by one man who's living in his own personal mad as a dog space ... and who condones military tanks running over people, let alone all the other atrocities ...
Thanks to you both - I do hope it stops soon ... Hilary
We really do need that re-union of nations - all over the world. So many wars, so many battlefronts! Just hoping and praying for peace. Heartbreaking.
Compassion for all is a good thing. I'm definitely praying for all in Ukraine, and indeed the world these days.
@ Nila - yes we certainly need understanding and a desperate hope that one man will realise what he's doing to other human beings. Heartbreaking ... totally.
@ Mark - life is exceedingly difficult for many now - just horrifying ...
Thanks to you both - lets sincerely hope that peace comes very soon. Hilary
Such a beautiful sculpture. Thanks for sharing, so much we don't know or understand, and now we are learning and crying at the same time. Praying for Peace!
Hilary, I loved reading this. That sculpture is heartrending. When it was made the world didn't expect to see history repeating. We can only pray for a miracle and help in any way we can.
@ Yolanda - it is a beautiful sculpture - so appropriate after WW2 and now even more so ... words defy me - yet knowledge appals me ...
@ Denise - thank you ... I really don't want to go the horror road - though I know it's happening ... the sculpture appeals for personal reasons: as you correctly note - no-one expected this sort of conflict to be actioned ... I sincerely hope the miracle occurs very soon.
Thanks to you both for commenting ... with thoughts for peace - Hilary
Hrm. I think my comment went missing.
This is a heartbreaking sign and that statue really hits home.
Hi Holly - thanks for coming back ... your earlier comment went in to spam - I rescued it ... so now posted (belatedly - sorry!) ...
The statue and its thoughtful idea is so appropriate right now ... just desperate times for Ukraine - thank you - Hilary
It's so nice to come across your blog again after several years. Saw you on a mutual friends blog and thought I'd pop over to say hi. Hope you're doing well. This whole Ukraine thing is very upsetting. It seems most Russians do not support Putin, but he's set about to destroy the country and it's people just the same. I keep hoping someone will stop him. The pictures of before Ukraine was attacked look wonderful, a place to visit; but the pictures now...so sad, so much death and destruction. Take care.
Traveling Suitcase
This is a wonderful share Hilary - thank you. May peace come soon to Ukraine.
It's so terrible to see what's going on in the world. That is such a beautiful sculpture.
www.onegayastronaut.blogspot.com
@ Sandy - thanks so much ... good to see you too. It is very worrying the invasion of Ukraine and how it is developing ... you too take care ...
@ Deborah - thank you ... and yes may peace come soon (very soon) ...
@ Gina - good to see you again too ... it is appalling. Thank you re the sculpture ...
Let's hope peace can come very soon - take care - Hilary
I love all of Monica Lewycka's books! I'd definitely recommend her other novels (and short stories) as well!
Hi Deniz - you're so well read ... and now you've prompted me - I must chase out more of Monica Lewycka's books in the library ... cheers Hilary
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