Lisova pisnia [Song of the Forest]

The incomparable Lesya Ukrainka (1871-1913) wrote her masterpiece, the drama-extravaganza 'Forest Song' in distant lands, when she missed her homeland very much. And to my dear Kolodyazhnyi, where 'on a moonlit night I ran alone into the forest and waited there for Mavka to appear to me. I was fascinated by this image for the rest of my life.' It is evident that this longing inspired the poetess to tell so poignantly about what a tragedy life turns into for those who empty their souls, renounce their purest feelings, quench their urge to creativity. Actually, after betraying his forest bride, the main character betrays himself. Because Mavka is a soul without which a person turns into a werewolf.