«We are»: a word born in front-line Zaporizhzhia
On September 23, on the eve of the Day of Defenders of Ukraine and the Day of the Ukrainian Cossacks, a creative meeting with poetess and volunteer Valentyna Vislenko took place at the Scientific Library of the Zaporizhzhia Polytechnic National University, during which the author presented her third poetry collection «We Are».
The event became an opportunity, through poetry, music, and the author’s personal story, to talk about those who defend Ukraine and what we stand for.
The event was attended by students, teachers and staff of the university, as well as a team of students and teachers of the Dniprorudnenskaya Specialized School of I–III Degrees «Talant».
The meeting was opened by Andriy Ivanchenko, Vice-Rector for Scientific and Pedagogical Work, Socio-Economic Development and Youth Policy of Zaporizhzhia Polytechnic National University. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of Ukrainian books and the printed word, drew attention to the challenges facing Ukrainian publishing and printing houses, and emphasized the importance of literature and culture as important components of national stability.
During the presentation, Valentyna Vislenko told about the history of the creation of her poetic triptych – the collections «How are you?», «How are you…» and «We are». All three books were born in front-line Zaporizhzhia against the background of personal experience of the war, feelings for Ukraine and the desire to support those who defend it.
The original songs performed by Valentyna Vislenko added special emotionality and warmth to the meeting. The insightful poems and sincere songs resonated deeply in the hearts of those present, evoking strong emotions and encouraging them to reflect on what they heard.
The meeting went beyond the book presentation and turned into a lively dialogue with the audience – with questions, personal stories, and reflections on what hurts and worries each of us today.
An important part of the event was the thematic book exhibition «Courage on the Guard of Peace», prepared by the Scientific Library for the Day of Defenders of Ukraine and the Day of the Ukrainian Cossacks.
The meeting was organized and moderated by the Head of the Scientific Library Sector Nataliia Fedko. Thanks to the well-coordinated work of the library team, the event was held in a warm and relaxed atmosphere and became a common gratitude to those who defend the freedom of Ukraine, its cities, culture and future every day.
We thank Valentina Vislenko for her volunteer activities, sincerity and creativity, for the opportunity to talk about important things in the language of poetry and music. For a word that supports, unites, and empowers.
Thank you to everyone who was with us!
