On the Road to Lviv

Set against the backdrop of war-torn Ukraine, this poem captures a deeply personal journey intertwined with historical events. Written by Christopher Merrill on his 65th birthday, it reflects on the immediate impact of conflict, particularly the devastation in Mariupol. The speaker, a self-aware Westerner, grapples with his role in promoting democracy and civil society amidst the chaos. With its poignant exploration of war crimes and self-reflection, the work stands as a significant contribution to the English-language discourse on Ukrainian history, complemented by Nina Murray's translation.