A literary event was held in Washington, D.C., with the participation of Ukrainian writer Volodymyr Rafeyenko, translator Mark Andrychyk, and cultural figure Irena Chalupa. During the meeting, they discussed the importance of popularizing and translating Ukrainian literature for an international audience.
This was reported by Ukraine House.
The event became a platform for an in-depth conversation about modern Ukrainian literature, its place in the world, and the importance of bringing the Ukrainian experience to the English-speaking reader. The focus was on Rafienko’s new works, which are already available in English: “Signals of Being,” “Mondegreen: Songs about Death and Love,” as well as his upcoming book “Petrykhor: The Smell of the Land After the Rain.”
During the meeting, Volodymyr Rafienko shared his personal experience of experiencing the full-scale Russian invasion, drawing parallels with the events of 2014. He spoke about how the war influenced his work and how he makes sense of modern Ukrainian reality through novels and poetry.
“Today, he continues to make sense of the war through his novels and poetry,” it was noted during the event.
The writer also spoke about his conscious transition to the Ukrainian language in 2014, emphasizing that this became for him not only a creative but also a worldview choice that allows him to rethink language, culture, and identity in a new way.
Rafienko paid special attention to the experience life in the United States, noting the support he and his family received from the local community.
Translator Mark Andrychyk shared his own story of immersion in Ukrainian culture and language. He spoke about the specifics of translating Ukrainian texts into English, emphasizing that this process is not only technical, but also deeply emotional.
“The translation process allowed me to relive and honor Volodymyr’s unique experience,” he emphasized.
The meeting was moderated by Irena Chalupa, president of the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America branch in Washington. She guided the discussion, focusing on the role of culture as a tool for international dialogue and understanding of Ukraine.
The participants were addressed with an introductory speech by Oksana Markarova, the Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States, who is also the Chair of the Advisory Council and Advisor to the President of Ukraine on Reconstruction and Investment. She emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy in times of war.
The participants emphasized that the translation and dissemination of Ukrainian literature is key to forming a true picture of Ukraine in the world, especially in the context of the ongoing war.
The event ended with thanks to all those present and participants for a joint evening dedicated to literature, translation, and understanding the resilience of the Ukrainian spirit.
The organizers note that such meetings are an important step towards strengthening Ukraine's cultural presence abroad and creating a deeper understanding of the Ukrainian experience among the international community.
Photo: Ukraine House
Author: Danylo Pievchev