The book by Vasyl Stus (January 6, 1938–September 4, 1985) — one of the most prominent Ukrainian poets of the 20th century — includes selected poems from different periods of his work. From the letter of V. Stus to fellow political prisoner Mykola Plahotniuk: "...our only optimism is in standing upright. And this attitude makes us all brothers... It's a pity I can't help you in any way; it turns out. At least don't forget that you, like all my true brothers, I keep in my head all the time, dry with your pains as mine. And more than once, more than twice I wrote your name - among others. Once again, brother: our optimism is in our posture with us. The rest is beyond us. That is the Lord's will, which is not disputed."
The book contains the best poems of the Poet and the most expressive passages from letters, full of philosophical generalizations and poignant details. Notes under some poems shed unexpected light on the dramatic moments of Vasyl Stus's life and work. We hope this book will become your favorite collection of works by a distinguished Poet and Citizen. Afterword: Kostiantyn Moskalets. Consultants: Halyna Stefanova, Kostiantyn Moskalets, Dmytro Stus.
