#Рабів до раю не #пускають #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom

Slaves are not allowed to enter paradise
 
a slogan on a t-shirt in a video...
after the Orange Revolution
a choice to fight, to train,
to not be submissive...
to stand for Ukraine...
to wage war against the enemy
to not accept subjugation
rejecting the choice of history
when their people were enslaved...
 
Рабів до раю не пускають -
slaves are not allowed to enter paradise -
Shevchenko’s warning also
centuries ago, in Ukraine,
the three lost souls, the bards,
caught between heaven and hell
acquiescence to enslavement
forfeiting their glory, their legacy,
their Cossack memory...
 
--------
August 10, 2026
Рабів до раю не пускають
 
Track "Нашеліто" (Our Summer) в альбомі "Музичний Лист Щастя"(2004)
by the Ukrainian band, Tartak
https://youtu.be/jpZX41ptPW8?si=3ICH6zGfMBvysrcc
Edited December 1, 2025
Three souls – v4
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/12/three-souls-v4.html
after poem, “Three souls”,
based on the poem, “The Great Grave”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited November 1, 2024
Three bards – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/11/three-bards-v2.html
after poem, “Three bards”,
based on the poem, “The Great Grave”,
by Taras Shevchenko,
edited and posted October 16, 2024
Like the friends of Job – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/like-friends-of-job-v2.html
based on the poem, “The Great Grave”,
by Taras Shevchenko,
Psalm 44:13-14
Psalm 43:14-15
Book of Job
Edited October 31, 2024
Are the people blind – v2
 https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/are-people-blind-v2.html
after poem, “Are the people blind”,
based on the poems, “The Great Grave”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 31, 2024
A Faustian Tragedy – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/a-faustian-tragedy-v2.html
after poem, “A Faustian Tragedy”,
based on the poems, “The Great Grave”,
by Taras Shevchenko,
called, “A Comedy”,
see Goethe
Edited October 19, 2024
The Great Grave has been opened – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-great-grave-has-been-opened-v2_27.html
edited and posted October 18, 2024
The spell has been broken – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-spell-has-been-broken-v2_27.html  
after poem, “The spell has been broken”,
based on the poems, “The Great Grave”,
“To Marko Vovchok”,
about Maria Markovich,
and “Hosea, Chapter XIV”,
by Taras Shevchenko,
taking his poem into the Ukraine / Russia War
and the bravery of the people of Ukraine now
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom 

His #heart was #Ukraine… - v4 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

Shevchenko’s is a singular voice,
The present hope of his people,
of his native land,
the ancient tongue,
the beating heart of Ukraine…
 
His heart was Ukraine,
no matter where he was planted,
in the darkness of the empire,
in prison, on the steppes,
He longed for his Ukraina…
 
Shevchenko never faltered,
Yet he despaired in his spirit,
He longed for glory to return,
for hope to rise again, freedom,
in his love, his homeland, Ukraine…
 
--------
Edited June 23, 2026
his heart was Ukraine… - v4
 
about Taras Shevchenko’s life and poetry
Edited October 15, 2024
The power of his words – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-power-of-his-words-v2_25.html
about Taras Shevchenko’s life and poetry
Edited October 29, 2024
A voice against injustice – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/a-voice-against-injustice-v2.html
Poems about Ukraine and the book, The Poet of Ukraine,
about the life and poetry of the Bard of Ukraine, Taras Shevchenko,
which I read after Hurricane Helene,
from 9/29/2024 to 10/15/24
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

My #God, my #muse, my #protector – v5 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

Hearing Taras speaking, breathing,
“My God, my muse, my protector”, ...
Seeing God in his writing, infusing,
His feeling that God has forsaken him,
His wrestling with God in his misery,
but cleaving to God as well, his center, ...
His beating heart, God as his strength…
 
Wicking the Word into his writing, scripture,
ancient law, promises, and the closeness of God ...
Speaking warning, God’s judgment on them,
bringing these ancient words into his speaking, ...
His crying out to his people, his brethren,
to not fall into the trap of the ancients, Israel,
to heed the lessons, to trust more fully in God…
 
An ongoing monologue, central to his calling,
wisdom within him, imparted, giving,
longing, feeling God gifting him words…
To hear His voice ever more clearly, urgently,
walking right beside him, hearing God’s call,
a separate vision, a whispering mission, purpose,
breathing, speaking to him constantly, evermore…
 
-------------
Edited June 23, 2026
My God, my muse, my protector – v5
 
 
My poem, “My god, my muse, my protector” is a way of recognizing Shevchenko’s very personal wrestling with God in his misery, praising God through his gifts, warning his people through scripture, especially with prophetic voices, and recognizing God’s protection through his trials in life. As a poor serf as a child or as an imprisoned poet and artist Shevchenko cleaved to God, he knew the presence of God, he cried out to God. He judged his oppressors, the oppressors of his people through scripture and he chastened his people through scripture as well.
 
His poem about Mary makes us look more deeply at the way we read scripture, and his poems rising from the prophets, or speaking of our blindness before the Spirit, challenge how we approach the Word. His dreams, his words, were replete with the poor man’s love of God, the need for God, and the trust in God. And, especially, he spoke to God as his muse and his protector. I know that I feel the same way all the time.
 
December 3, 2024
My God, my muse, my protector
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/12/my-god-my-muse-my-protector.html
Edited November 26, 2024
Listen to the Prophet – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/11/listen-to-prophet-v3.html
after poem, “Listen to the Prophet”,
based on the poem, “Hosea, Chapter XIV”,
by Taras Shevchenko
November 4, 2024
A song of Mary – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/11/a-song-of-mary-v2.html
after poem, “A song of Mary”,
based on the poem, “Mary”,
by Taras Shevchenko
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

#peace in his #spirit – v5 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

Though he struggled in his body,
There was peace in his spirit,
knowing another would continue,
that Ukraine would not be forgotten,
that another messenger would be there,
They would take up his banner, his cause…
 
Another was rising, a believer,
someone to carry the banner, Ukraina,
a mild and tender prophet, was blessed, ...
He was gifted an answer to his prayers,
that the one truth would not perish,
would not vanish from this earth…
 
A stirring in the universe, within his people,
Another heart was ready, gifted, anointed,
to carry forth the promise, his life’s purpose, ...
His life’s work, his message, his faith,
to keep alive the memory, the hope,
for his dearest beloved, Ukraina…
 
A holy star he had wished for,
His prayer he poured out upon her,
that she would be faithful,
that she would stand in the gap, ...
A blessing in the mighty call,
continuing his life’s work…
 
These words manifest a prophecy,
A legacy of hope, of promise,
opening his heart up, gratitude,
Peace at his ending, in his spirit, ...
Knowing another will support the cause,
of his love, his blessed Ukraina…
 
--------
Edited June 23, 2026
peace in his spirit – v5
 
after poem, “peace in his spirit”,
based on the poem, “To Marko Vovchok”,
by Taras Shevchenko,
about Maria Markovich,
written January 24, 1859
Edited October 3, 2025
peace in his spirit – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/10/peace-in-his-spirit-v3.html
Edited October 17, 2024
peace in his spirit – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/peace-in-his-spirit-v2_26.html
Edited October 3, 2025
Sing to me, Taras – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/10/sing-to-me-taras-v3.html
a prayer to Taras Shevchenko
Edited September 30, 2025
Channeling Taras – v6
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/09/channeling-taras-v6.html
About Taras Shevchenko speaking to my spirit,
through his life and poetry
Edited September 29, 2025
I hear Taras’ whisper to me… - v5
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/09/i-hear-taras-whisper-to-me-v5.html
about Ukrainian poet Taras Shevchenko…
Robert Burns, Mikhail Bulgakov, and Nikolai Gogol…
Robert Frost and Mary Oliver…
New/edited and posted October 16, 2024
The Great Grave has been opened
typed October 16, 2024
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-great-grave-has-been-opened.html
after poem, “The Great Grave has been opened”,
based on the poem, “The Great Grave”,
by Taras Shevchenko,
taking his poem into the Ukraine / Russia War
and the bravery of the people of Ukraine now
Written and posted September 29, 2024
A voice against injustice
typed October 15, 2024
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/a-voice-against-injustice.html
Poems about Ukraine and the book, The Poet of Ukraine,
about the life and poetry of the Bard of Ukraine, Taras Shevchenko,
which I read after Hurricane Helene,
from 9/29/2024 to 10/15/24
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 202 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

my heart’s flying – v4 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

in darkness my liberty
I am not held by these chains,
by these prison walls, ...
Sunset signals my escape,
I am freed of these bonds…
 
I mount to the heights, I vault,
No weight, no resistance,
rising above, outside,
into the night air I climb,
freed from my chains…
 
my heart’s flying, escaped,
far from this place, soaring
to my homeland, Ukraine…
I pray that the bright stars
will gather me home once more, ...
They will show me the way…
 
--------
Edited June 23, 2026
my heart’s flying – v4
 
after poem, “my heart’s flying”,
based on the poem, Poems of Exile,
“N.N. (Sunset ii coming…)”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited November 2, 2024
Fly to me, my darling thoughts – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/11/fly-to-me-my-darling-thoughts-v2.html
after poem, “Fly to me, my darling thoughts”,
based on the poem, Poems of Exile,
“1847 Songs of Mine, songs of mine…”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited November 2, 2024
In an alien land – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/11/in-alien-land-v2.html
after poem, “In an alien land”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 4”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited November 2, 2024
I have been brought to wait – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/11/i-have-been-brought-to-wait-v2.html
after poem, “I have been brought to wait”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 10”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited and posted October 16, 2024
what a difference – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/what-difference-v2_24.html 
after poem, “what a difference”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 3”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited and posted October 16, 2024
It makes no difference to me – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/it-makes-no-difference-to-me-v2_24.html
after poem, “It makes no difference to me”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 3”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited November 2, 2024
From the tomb a Kozak – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/11/from-tomb-kozak-v2.html
after poem, “From the tomb a Kozak”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 2”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 9, 2024
alone, all alone
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/alone-all-alone-alone-all-alone-trapped.html
after poem, “alone, all alone”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 1”,
by Taras Shevchenko
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

It makes no difference to me – v5 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

Imprisoned, in despair, speaking,
“It makes no difference to me,” …
His repeated line of sorrow,
unaware of his place in history…
 
How wrong he was, truly,
for his legacy is transcendent, ...
His words were an epithet spoken
He spoke a curse over himself…
 
“I shall not leave the slightest trace
upon our glorious Ukraine,”
He cried out in pain, in failure, ...
He whispered from his prison cell…
 
But in the pantheon of saints,
Kobzars, the Kozaks, the Hetman,
He is the exemplar, the hero,
He is the Bard, the Poet of Ukraine…
 
--------
Edited June 23, 2026
It makes not difference to me – v5
 
after poem, “It makes no difference to me”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 3”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 9, 2024
From the tomb a Kozak
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/from-tomb-kozak_24.html
after poem, “From the tomb a Kozak”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 2”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 9, 2024
alone, all alone
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/alone-all-alone-alone-all-alone-trapped.html
after poem, “alone, all alone”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 1”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 9, 2024
lay my body
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/lay-my-body_24.html
after poem, “lay my body”,
based on the poem, “The Testament”,
by Taras Shevchenko,
written Christmas Day, 1845,
when he was 31 years old,
the desire to be buried in Ukraine,
see link to Taras Hill, his burial site…
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taras_Hill
Written and posted October 9, 2024
Don't forget your mother
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/dont-forget-your-mother_24.html
after poem, “Don't forget your mother”,
based on the poem, “The Epistle”,
1 John 4:20
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted September 29, 2024
A voice against injustice
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/a-voice-against-injustice.html
Poems about Ukraine and the book, The Poet of Ukraine,
about the life and poetry of the Bard of Ukraine, Taras Shevchenko,
which I read after Hurricane Helene,
from 9/29/2024 to 10/15/24
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

#Fly to me, my darling thoughts – v5 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

Though I am in chains,
bound for freedom’s sake, ...
I am being held in prison, ...
I cry to the wind, to my history,
to find me in my struggle,
to give me hope, a sense of peace …
 
Fly to me, my darling thoughts,
teased from the ether, from spirit,
from memories, my life, ...
across time and space, I call …
My history, my vision, my heart,
will remember my sweet Ukraina…
 
--------
Edited June 23, 2026
Fly to me, my darling thoughts – v5
 
after poem, “Fly to me, my darling thoughts”,
based on the poem, Poems of Exile,
“1847 Songs of Mine, songs of mine…”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 10, 2024
I have been brought to wait
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/i-have-been-brought-to-wait_24.html
after poem, “I have been brought to wait”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 10”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 10, 2024
In an alien land
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/in-alien-land_24.html
after poem, “In an alien land”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 4”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited and posted October 16, 2024
what a difference – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/what-difference-v2_24.html 
Written and posted October 10, 2024
what a difference
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/what-difference_24.html
after poem, “what a difference”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 3”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited and posted October 16, 2024
It makes no difference to me – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/it-makes-no-difference-to-me-v2_24.html
Written and posted October 9, 2024
It makes no difference to me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/it-makes-no-difference-to-me.html
after poem, “It makes no difference to me”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 3”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 9, 2024
From the tomb a Kozak
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/from-tomb-kozak_24.html
after poem, “From the tomb a Kozak”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 2”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 9, 2024
alone, all alone
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/alone-all-alone-alone-all-alone-trapped.html
after poem, “alone, all alone”,
based on the poem, “In the Fortress, No. 1”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted September 29, 2024
A voice against injustice
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/a-voice-against-injustice.html
Poems about Ukraine and the book, The Poet of Ukraine,
about the life and poetry of the Bard of Ukraine, Taras Shevchenko,
which I read after Hurricane Helene,
from 9/29/2024 to 10/15/24
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

on the backs of the fallen – v4 #StPetersburg #Tsar #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

On the backs of their fallen
the people of Ukraine
on their dead and buried bodies,
You built your palaces,
your façade of opulence…
 
Upon the carnage, the pain,
their oppression, their sorrow
the human wreckage,
of your greed for power,
your imperial lust…
 
You built a city, a cesspool,
upon the bodies of so many
cursed tsar and wicked ruler,
“Murderer and viper!”,
while we were in chains…
 
I will fly back
to my Ukraina
to my beloved homeland
to our Dnipro and
see what you have left…
 
“Revel on, O savage hangman,”
May you be forever cursed
May this judgment fall upon you,
all you have taken, slaughtered,
All you have fettered will be free at last.
 
--------
Edited June 23, 2026
on the backs of the fallen – v4
 
after poem, “on the backs of the fallen”,
based on the poem, “The Dream”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 31, 2024
the second stabbed with savage blow – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-second-stabbed-with-savage-blow-v2.html
after poem, “the second stabbed with savage blow”,
based on the poem, “The Dream”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 31, 2024
I fly after her unceasing – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/i-fly-after-her-unceasing-v2.html
after poem, “I fly after her unceasing”,
based on the poem, “The Dream”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 31, 2024
I boldly walked within – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/i-boldly-walked-within-v2.html
after poem, “I boldly walked within”,
based on the poem, “The Dream”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 31, 2024
Again, I fly above the earth – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/again-i-fly-above-earth-v2.html
after poem, “Again I fly above the earth”,
based on the poem, “The Dream”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 30, 2024
a spectral being – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/a-spectral-being-v2.html
after poem, “a spectral being”,
based on the poems, “The Dream”,
St. John 14:17, God’s wrath on Russia…
by Taras Shevchenko
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

a loving #tribute – v4 #elegy #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

He lovingly bent to the task
a prayer over his Father,
the one who came before him, ...
the keeper of their culture,
the one who he would soon surpass…
 
A loving tribute, an elegy,
sacred words of homage,
of memory, of legacy, ...
cleaving to his fidelity, his faith,
his guide star, their Ukraine…
 
An after poem of celebration -
honoring this one voice -
tapping the well of his words ...
An homage to his forebearer,
the one who paved his way…
 
He called the Spirit to accept
his loving tribute, for him,
a reverent homily offered
as an orphan to his country, ...
singing songs of his dear Ukraine…
 
--------
Edited June 22, 2026
a loving tribute – v4
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/06/a-loving-tribute-v4.html
after poem, “a loving tribute”,
based on the poem, “To the Eternal Memory
of Kotlarevsky”, written in 1838, before Kobzar,
published in the almanac, “Swallow”
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 3, 2024
Tales of Ukraina
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/tales-of-ukraina_24.html
after poem, “Tales of Ukraina”,
based on the poem, “Prelude” of “The Haydamaki”
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited and posted October 3, 2024
I sing what thou hast whispered – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/i-sing-what-thou-hast-whispered-v2.html
after poem, “I sing what thou hast whispered – v2”,
based on the poem, “Prelude” of “The Haydamaki”
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 3, 2024
A word of caution
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/a-word-of-caution_24.html
after poem, “A word of caution”,
based on the poem, “Katerina”
by Taras Shevchenko
and John 4: 5-30 (woman at the well)
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

in that #battle where they #vanquished – v5 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history #NightofTaras

from the well of our sadness
our song of that story,
the fight of their people
long before the sorrow
that we cry for Ukraina, ...
At the story of her misfortune,
our hearts begin to weep…
 
formerly Kozaks cherished,
the mighty fight before them,
overcoming the serpents, the waves,
the ravens at the ready, waiting for them vainly,
in that battle where they vanquished,
cast off their yokes for freedom, for glory, ...
oh, may that day come again, very soon…
 
may the ancient Kozaks rise, a legion,
from their lofty tombs remember,
all your noble high mountains,
descend to meet the challenge,
fight of your people, raging, united,
to reclaim memory, ancient glory,
of your freedom that was devoured, ...
“My dear heart! My darling!”, Ukraina…
 
--------
Edited June 22, 2026
In that battle where they vanquished – v5
 
after poem, “in that battle where they vanquished”,
based on the poem, “Night of Taras”
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 30, 2024
the blue sea, an angry monster – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-blue-sea-angry-monster-v2.html
after poem, “the blue sea, an angry monster”,
based on the poem, “Ivan Pidkova”
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 30, 2024
Gone the ancient freedom – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/gone-ancient-freedom-v2.html
after poem, “Gone the ancient freedom”,
based on the poem, “Osnovyanenko”
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 30, 2024
Do the Kobzars sing – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/do-kobzars-sing-v2.html
after poem, “the suffering of Ukraine”,
based on the Dedication to “The Kobzar”,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 15, 2024
In my dream, darling
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/in-my-dream-darling_23.html
Written and posted October 1, 2024
the suffering of Ukraine
typed October 15, 2024
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-suffering-of-ukraine_23.html
after poem, “the suffering of Ukraine”,
based on the Dedication to The Kobzar,
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 30, 2024
All my people are strangers – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/all-my-people-are-strangers-v2.html
after poem, “All my people are strangers”,
based on the poem, “Dumka”,
lament of an orphan girls,
successor to “The Poplar”,
and introduction to “Osnovyanenko”
by Taras Shevchenko
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

“Had she known” – v5 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

Oh, sorrow for the black-haired maiden,
her suitor is now dead, departed,
had she known her future,
So many questions waiting
mysteries revealing,
sadness unfolding,
captured asunder…
for failing to ask questions
The mortal coil is asking
requesting providence, protection,
a growing knowledge,
seeing the tragic future,
repeating the assertion -
“Had she known,” oh had she known,
the one central question
in their union, in their parting…
 
knowing her prescribed future,
what could only be expected,
Truth, they had detected
her sorrow manifest, open,
on his death, his departing…
He is gone now forever,
Her world is no longer singing
In the grove, the poplars
where she is planted
by the witch she consulted -
So, she would not have to marry
one not her lover, her center -
So, she would not tarry,
the potion hot and heavy…
the poplar growing in silence,
here across the sea…
 
--------
Edited June 22, 2026
Had she known – v5
 
after poem, “Had she known,”
based on the poem, “The Poplar,”
about a maiden’s Kozak lover
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 2, 2024
after “Perebendya”
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/after-perebendya_23.html
after poem, “after “Perebendya””,
based on the poem, “Perebendya,”
the last of the Kobzars
by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted October 2, 2024
Do the Kobzars sing
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/do-kobzars-sing_23.html
after poem, “the suffering of Ukraine,”
based on the Dedication to “The Kobzar,”
by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 30, 2024
Sing to me, Taras – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/sing-to-me-taras-v2.html
a prayer to Taras Shevchenko
Edited and posted October 17, 2024
Channeling Taras – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/channeling-taras-v2_26.html
About Taras Shevchenko speaking to my spirit,
through his life and poetry
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

Known almost in whispers – v5 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

In life known but unknown
his work, his worth hidden
known almost in whispers,
in truths meant to be known…
 
His power, a revelation, emergent,
in truth a mystery, a treasure,
that his words were highly favored,
though officially they were unknown…
 
Known only in whispers
in pamphlets, in manuscripts,
shared in the underground, in secret,
longing to have breath, to have life…
 
His power, a revelation, ascendant,
burgeoning through the ether, ...
Now his words are the fuel, the fire,
that burns within Ukraine…
 
--------
Edited June 22, 2026
Known almost in whispers – v5
 
how the poems of Taras Shevchenko weren’t published
in books but were shared in secret
Edited October 29, 2024
Diaspora – 2- v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/diaspora-2-v2.html
about the 24 years Taras Shevchenko
spent away from Ukraine in his youth and imprisonment,
like the Babylonian Exile in Israel
Edited October 29, 2024
The mother and the martyr – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-mother-and-martyr-v2.html
after poem “the mother and the martyr”, based on the poem,
“Neophytes”, by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 29, 2024
The Great Catastrophe – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-great-catastrophe-v2.html
based on sentence and imprisonment of Taras Shevchenko
for ten years, 1847 (age 33) until 1857 (age 43)
Written and posted September 30, 2024
the ruin of his country
typed October 15, 2024
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-ruin-of-his-country.html
after poem “the ruin of his country”, based on the poems,
“The Dream” and “The Great Grave”, by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted September 29, 2024
A voice against injustice
typed October 15, 2024
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/a-voice-against-injustice.html
Poems about Ukraine and the book, The Poet of Ukraine,
about the life and poetry of the Bard of Ukraine, Taras Shevchenko,
which I read after Hurricane Helene,
from 9/29/2024 to 10/15/24
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

unhappy with their lies – v5 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

He was unhappy with Moskal’s lies
stealing their history, their culture,
claiming benevolence, brotherhood,
when they were the awful oppressors…
 
History may be written by those who conquer
but there festered within his spirit,
a righteous indignation, for justice,
a love for the eternal truth…
 
So much was taken from them,
their identity, their true history,
putting his noble people in torment,
in subjugation, in bondage…
 
He was unhappy with Moskal’s lies,
usurping their glory, their story, ...
He longed for freedom to return,
to his beloved homeland…
 
--------
Edited June 22, 2026
unhappy with their lies – v5
 
about Taras Shevchenko’s life and poetry
Edited October 29, 2024
the ruin of his country – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-ruin-of-his-country-v2.html
after poem “the ruin of his country”, based on the poems,
“The Dream” and “The Great Grave”, by Taras Shevchenko
Edited October 29, 2024
A revolutionary, a subversive – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/a-revolutionary-subversive-v2.html
Written and posted September 30, 2024
after poem “A revolutionary, a subversive”, based on the poem,
“The Dream, by Taras Shevchenko
Written and posted September 29, 2024
A voice against injustice
typed October 15, 2024
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/a-voice-against-injustice.html
Poems about Ukraine and the book, The Poet of Ukraine,
about the life and poetry of the Bard of Ukraine, Taras Shevchenko,
which I read after Hurricane Helene,
from 9/29/2024 to 10/15/24
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

Plumb his words – v5 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

dip your cup, again,
plumb his words, deeply,
his depths of emotion, his passion,
wellspring of his pain, his torment,
separated from his homeland, his people, ...
his anger at injustice, rage, shouting,
his love for his people, his family, serfs,
the imprisoned, all those downtrodden…
 
bathe in the waters,
plumb his words, closely,
his kinship, his fidelity, his faith,
cleaving forever, always, always,
to the land of his birth, this black soil,
even when he was set apart, in prison…
He always knew where he came from,
His heart was forever Ukraine…
 
--------
Edited June 22, 2026
Plumb his words – v5
 
about Taras Shevchenko’s life and poetry
Edited October 29, 2024
In Ukrainian (in Aramaic) – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/in-ukrainian-in-aramaic-v2.html
The Russian radicals looked down on the poems of
Shevchenko, because they were written in Ukrainian
Written and posted September 29, 2024
A voice against injustice
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/10/a-voice-against-injustice.html
Poems about Ukraine and the book, The Poet of Ukraine,
about the life and poetry of the Bard of Ukraine, Taras Shevchenko,
which I read after Hurricane Helene, 9/29/2024 to 10/15/24
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
poetry, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history