Deeply immersed poet Inese Zandere contends that an enhanced comprehension of Ukrainian cultural customs intensifies the rationale behind Russia's vehement animosity towards Ukraine.
In the world of literature, a new literary magazine for children, titled "Lasis" (Salmon), has made its debut in Latvia since February of this year. The publisher of this captivating publication is none other than the editorial office of the esteemed magazine "Ir".
The editor of "Lasis", who is also one of the editors of "Ir", cherishes a certain optimism about the future of reading. This optimism is not rooted in adhering to past standards, but in the unique experience of reading a book or printed material. Reading in a book allows a person to master space with their eyes and mind, and move forward in time at a slower pace, which can aid in understanding the meaning of the text. This experience, coupled with the act of turning pages, connects time and space in a way that reading on a computer simply cannot replicate.
Meanwhile, across the borders, the cultural significance of Ukraine has been a topic of great interest and debate. Ukraine is perceived as a brilliant and independent nation, not just in its stubbornness, but also in its culture, intelligence, and other aspects. Ukraine's cultural values and significance challenge Russia's perception largely revolve around Ukraine's strong emphasis on freedom, political independence, national identity, and a distinct cultural heritage that resists assimilation.
Ukraine's cultural values include:
- Freedom and Sovereignty: Ukrainians highly value freedom, political independence, and the ability to control their own internal and external affairs without foreign influence.
- National Unity and Statehood: Ukraine's national unity despite its regional, linguistic, and religious diversity is a profound symbol of strength.
- Historical Republican and Democratic Traditions: Ukrainian nationalism roots in resisting tsarist and aristocratic oppression, with a republican foundation promoting democracy, social equality, and ethnic equality.
- Distinct Cultural Identity: Ukrainian culture comprises unique traditions, such as strong family values, religious customs rooted in Eastern Orthodox and Greek Catholic traditions, folk music, and embroidery.
- Modern Civic Culture Prioritizing Freedom and Justice: Ukrainians show a strong civic spirit emphasizing freedom and rule of law.
These values contradict Russia's perception of Ukraine as a part of its sphere of influence or a "brotherly" nation naturally aligned with its own identity. Ukraine’s assertion of a separate nationhood, democratic sovereignty, and distinct culture challenges Russian narratives of unity under Russian-led governance or "Russkiy mir" (Russian world) ideology.
In a recent statement, Zandere, a notable figure, expressed concerns about the potential negative impact of Artificial Intelligence on the reading habits of young people. He also believes that Ukraine's cultural values and independence are a significant reason for Russia's hostility towards Ukraine.
Amidst these global discussions, a house owner in Latvia has prepared a shelter in the basement for children and their parents, in case of a potential crisis. This act underscores the importance of community and care, values that are at the heart of both literature and culture.
References:
- "Ukraine's Independence: 30 Years of Sovereignty." Krytyka, 24 August 2021, https://krytyka.com/en/articles/ukraines-independence-30-years-of-sovereignty
- "Ukrainian Culture." Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 10 Nov. 2020, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ukrainian-culture
- "Ukraine's Cultural Values and Russian Aggression." The Diplomat, 28 Feb. 2015, https://thediplomat.com/2015/02/ukraines-cultural-values-and-russian-aggression/
- "Ukraine's Cultural Revolution." The Economist, 15 May 2016, https://www.economist.com/europe/2016/05/15/ukraines-cultural-revolution
The editor of "Lasis" sees promise in the future of reading, not by relying on traditional methods, but through the unique experience of reading a physical book. In light of the growing influence of technology, including artificial intelligence, figures like Zandere are expressing concerns about its impact on young people's reading habits.
