Remembering Iryna Zhylenko: The Poet of Private Life Turns 85

Celebrating Iryna Zhylenko’s Legacy

According to Велика українська енциклопедія: On April 28, 2026, Ukraine will mark the 85th anniversary of the birth of Iryna Zhylenko-a celebrated poet, writer, and journalist. Born Irayida Volodymyrivna Zhylenko on April 28, 1941, in Kyiv, Ukraine, she passed away in her hometown on August 3, 2013. Her work, often described as 'poetry of private life,' earned her a distinct place in Ukrainian literature, with critics calling her a 'singer of a harmonious and understanding home.'

Zhylenko was a prominent figure in Ukrainian-language letters and the wife of writer V. Drozd. Her deeply personal verses, rooted in everyday experiences and intimate emotions, continue to resonate with readers today.

Her Impact on Ukrainian Literature

This anniversary highlights Zhylenko’s enduring contribution to Ukraine’s literary and cultural heritage. By focusing on private feelings and daily realities, her poetry underscores the value of human emotions and relationships-a message that remains timeless. The milestone may inspire fresh scholarly exploration of her work and introduce her writings to a new generation.

For more details on Iryna Zhylenko’s life and oeuvre, visit the VUE portal.