Lithuanian poets participated in the discussions “Poetry and humanity in the context of war“, “From the Baltic to the Mediterranean Sea”. Poetry festivals”, “Lines of understanding: reading and conversation with Lithuanian poets”, “Why is it (still) poetry? Why is it more than poetry?”.
“I envy such a festival in Ukraine,” said Tomas Ivanauskas, Lithuanian cultural attaché in Ukraine. – Although it was held for the first time, it immediately attracted thousands of spectators. The events took place in five halls, which were named after the most famous Ukrainian poets – “Shevchenko”, “Franko”, “Lesia”, “Stus”, “Antonič”. It was amazing to see that people just couldn’t fit into some of the discussions or meetings with the poets. Not to mention the concert programs, where famous Ukrainian bands played, and the feeling was like a rock concert, not a poetry festival.
To see that people love poetry, they need it, especially in times of war. Of course, the main topic of all discussions and conversations was the war, because many poets are at war, many are dead, and war poetry is dominant at the moment. During the festival, we talked with the organizer, head of the Stary Lev publishing house, Mariana Savka, that next year she would like to expand the Lithuanian program, perhaps bring a music group, present translations of Ukrainian poetry into Lithuanian. It’s a pity that we don’t have anything like that in Lithuania, but it really should.”
“We received the invitation to the festival – a new one, unknown to us, a few months ago, and since we don’t go empty-handed, we started preparing,” said Marius Burokas, one of the participating Lithuanian poets. – We tried to make it so that we drove forward with a car or cars loaded with all kinds of good things. The organizers of the festival wanted to invite those authors who have connections with Ukraine, help her, translate her poets, write about the country and the war themselves.
At first, four of us were invited – Donatas Petrošius, me, Laurynas Katkus and Jurgita Jasponytė, but time adjusted the plans. All our poems were translated by the poet and translator Kateryna Michalicyna. We participated in four events – joint readings and each of us took part in a conversation or discussion with Ukrainians. By the way, it is very well thought out, not only for lecturing the audience, but also involves you in conversations with colleagues. The festival is new, but grandiose.
I was amazed by the level of organization, the size of the audience, the way Ukrainians know how to combine poetry and music. Everything is very conveniently organized, a very wide range of topics is covered – not only book presentations, but also discussions, conversations, honoring deceased authors. And all this – during the war! In short, I’m impressed (I’m not saying I’m surprised, because you can expect such a level from Ukrainians) and I’m grateful to the organizers, especially Mariana Savka, for the invitation.”
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**Interview with Marius Burokas: Lithuanian Poet at the Poetry Festival in Ukraine**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Marius. You recently participated in a poetry festival in Ukraine focused on themes such as war and humanity. Can you tell us more about what inspired you and your fellow poets to make the trip?
**Marius Burokas:** Thank you for having me. Our motivation came from a strong sense of solidarity with Ukraine. When we received the invitation to the festival, we were thrilled, as it offered a unique platform to share our poetry and connect with Ukrainian culture. We wanted to contribute meaningfully and decided to bring not just our poems but also other items that symbolize support and friendship.
**Editor:** It sounds like a powerful experience. Tomas Ivanauskas mentioned how the festival drew thousands of spectators, creating an atmosphere akin to a rock concert. What was that environment like for the poets?
**Marius Burokas:** It was absolutely electric! The enthusiasm from the audience was palpable. People were not just passive listeners; they were engaged and hungry for poetry, especially under the current circumstances. There were moments when it felt like poetry was a lifeline, and we were part of something significant. The passion for poetry surged in a way that is rarely seen elsewhere.
**Editor:** You mentioned the themes discussed at the festival were largely centered on the war and its impact on poets. How did that affect your own work and perspective?
**Marius Burokas:** The war is indeed a dominant theme in contemporary poetry. Many poets have lost friends and family, and some are actively engaged in the conflict. While we shared our own works, we also listened to Ukrainian poets, which deeply influenced us. It reminded us of the power of poetry as a means of resistance, healing, and connection during turbulent times.
**Editor:** Mariana Savka, the organizer of the festival, expressed interest in expanding the Lithuanian program for next year. What ideas do you have for potential collaborations?
**Marius Burokas:** Yes, Mariana and I discussed incorporating more elements of cultural exchange, such as musical performances and translations of Ukrainian poetry into Lithuanian. I believe we can create a stronger bridge between our two cultures. Collaborating with musicians and offering workshops could also enhance the experience for everyone involved.
**Editor:** how do you view the future of poetry amid such dire circumstances? Is there still hope for its role in society?
**Marius Burokas:** Without a doubt. Poetry provides a voice to those who suffer, a channel for expression in times of turmoil, and a way to cultivate understanding and empathy. As long as people need to articulate their experiences and emotions, poetry will endure. It has the power to connect us, remind us of our shared humanity, and envision a better future.
**Editor:** Thank you, Marius, for sharing your insights and experiences from the festival. It’s heartening to see such dedication to poetry and cultural exchange in challenging times.
**Marius Burokas:** Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure to discuss these important themes.
