Taras Shevchenko Poems in Ukrainian: A Literary Treasure

Taras Shevchenko, often referred to as the *bard* of Ukraine, was a prominent Ukrainian poet, writer, artist, and activist. His works have had a profound influence on Ukrainian literature and culture, making him a national *hero* in Ukraine. Shevchenko's poems in Ukrainian are celebrated for their poignant themes, lyrical beauty, and powerful messages that resonate with readers to this day.

Background

Shevchenko was born in 1814 in a small village in central Ukraine, which was then part of the Russian Empire. Despite facing many hardships in his early life, including serfdom and poverty, Shevchenko's talent and *determination* shone through. He was able to overcome these obstacles and pursue his passion for poetry and art.

Themes in Shevchenko's Poetry

Shevchenko's poems in Ukrainian cover a wide range of themes, from love and nature to social *injustice* and nationalism. One of the recurring themes in his work is the plight of the Ukrainian *peasantry* and the struggle for *freedom* and *independence*. Shevchenko's poems often reflect his deep *empathy* for the common people and his desire to see Ukraine liberated from oppression.

Examples of Taras Shevchenko Poems in Ukrainian

Here are a few examples of Shevchenko's poems in Ukrainian that showcase his *talent* and *passion*:

1. "Testament"

Мені однаково, чи буду
Ще я довго жити, чи нi!
Бувай, що буде, я пройду,
Я вже не маю iншого шляху.
Чи довго буду, не знаю,
Чи скоро вже прийде година,
А було б жаль мені вмирати!
Бо стільки ще... ще не маю я
Сказать людям свой думки всії.
І стільки ще... ні, немає
Помсти за все, що пройшлось *болем*!
Я хочу ще... бо моє серце
Сильно прив'язалось до життя,
Та й душі в мене ще живі!
Хочу дописать кiлька пісень,
Ще кiлька тих проклятих пісень,
Щоб правда сказала на один раз!
І нехай змарнію я по них,
Я виревнюю вiки зламанi,
Моє життя — одна прозвиська!

2. "The Caucasus"

Там в синьому морі — верх виверта горби,
По утесах кинули кам'яні мосты;
Там через море дишлучені — дні и ночы —
Та вже строють козаки свої бункери.
У гори провір'я — звал, як наш Високий,
Знаменний й у старих часах, і тепер;
Вогонь піднімається і дотикає й скалні
Кормили вогнями поспи — й поліщеться вер!го*!

These poems capture the essence of Shevchenko's *artistry* and *vision*, showcasing his *deep* *emotions* and *unyielding* *spirit*.

Taras Shevchenko's poems in Ukrainian are a *testament* to his enduring *legacy* and *impact* on Ukrainian literature. His works continue to inspire and *move* readers around the world, resonating with those who *cherish* *freedom* and the *human* *spirit*. Shevchenko's *poetic* *genius* will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.