Learning Russian

Summary

An individual reflects on the complexities and emotions of learning Russian while living in Ukraine, capturing the essence of cultural and linguistic immersion amidst historical and personal significance.

Abstract

The text is a personal narrative detailing the author's experience with learning the Russian language in the context of Ukraine's rich history and culture. Amidst the backdrop of Kyiv, the author grapples with the challenges of mastering a new language and the cultural nuances that come with it. The poem conveys a sense of isolation and disconnection, juxtaposed with the beauty and allure of the city. Despite the difficulty in embracing the local language, the author acknowledges the deep historical ties between Ukraine and Russia, personifying Kyiv as a mother figure whose influence is integral to the identity of Russia. The narrative concludes with the author's commitment to fully engage with the language, likening the process to a historical Varangian journey along the Dnieper River.

Opinions

The author feels a sense of detachment due to the language barrier and the inability to communicate with locals.
There is a personal struggle with the decision to learn Russian over Ukrainian, influenced by practicality rather than preference.
The author senses a profound historical connection between Kyiv and Russian culture, recognizing Kyiv as the "Mother" of Russia.
Despite the challenges, there is an underlying respect and appreciation for the cultural significance of Kyiv and its impact on the Russian identity.
The author expresses a resignation to prioritize language learning over other intellectual pursuits, indicating a pragmatic approach to adapting to a new environment.

A poem about living in Ukraine

Photo by author’s wife December 2020

Snow piles up in the ancient city Onion domes gleam gold in winter’s sun Masked strangers seem, stranger, as they pass None of them can be spoken to but it is not their fault She calls my name, this crossroads, this next step toward life

A song keeps playing in my head The singer says there’s no time left for you But maybe unlike him, I am not on the way to better Only traveling the road that is different and requires something This something I have not mastered no matter how hard I tried with others

Cyrillic script haunts my days and nights Because here it is everywhere and I nowhere Reading it is not what vexes, that seems to come slightly Comprehending it, speaking it, and strangers slowly walk on by There is a force, an energy here that yells in my ear to stop and master it

Kyiv softly sings me a gentle lullaby She embraces me even though I am so different To speak her language, but instead, I choose the other More people speak it, I tell her as she hangs her head sadly, sullen Nothing personal my new and beautiful Ukrainian city, my lovely Maidan

She does not cry but nods, understanding The breath of her Russian history breathes loud Softly, she whispers that without her there is no Russia I know that she is the Mother whose child has grown stronger, richer They know too, yet they abandoned her nonetheless and now wish to control her

And I cross myself passing St. Volodymyr’s Knowing that for now some things must be left alone No time for Medium, writing, creativity, or other intellectual pursuits Now is the time to hunker down, give this strange language all my attention Floating down the Dnieper a Varangian landing for the first time on these shores