Lesya Ukrainka. Lisova pisnja. (mp3). (Forest Song)

Tell me, when did you first read "Forest Song"? And when did you read it last? I, for example, first read it at the age of about 14-15. Then the main thing I kept in memory was the feeling of some unknown, but indubitable beauty and mystery. This is one of works from which Ukrainian literature really began for me – and simultaneously interest and respect to folklore. Not only Ukrainian – for deep roots of all cultures have something in common. These related links are not always obvious, but it is the more interesting to notice, feel them... Then I several times re-read it in fragments – rather not for myself, but because there was the need. And now – I have made my acquaintance with it as if anew, from a blank sheet. And – the acquaintance was very pleasant. This time I was more interested in, in fact, not the spectacle, but, actually, the drama. Imagine my surprise when I saw that virtually all participants of the action are – happy. In other words, everybody receives everything, to a full degree. But – each at his/her own level, in the space of own desires, feelings, dreams. Who wanted to attain understanding with the forest – got the understanding. Who wanted to sell the oak – sawed and sold it. Who wanted love – finally managed to give it, and consequently – received it as well... Not all major events of human life are limited to the time of life, and there is no tragedy here. The main thing is that the soul stayed alive...