Lina Kostenko Recites 'Wings' for the 'Madar's Birds' Brigade

Poet Lina Kostenko and the 'Madar's Birds' Military Unit

According to Главком: Acclaimed Ukrainian poet Lina Kostenko has delivered a reading of her poem 'Wings' ('Kryla') for the 'Madar's Birds' brigade. The event was reported by the Ukrainian outlet Glavcom, citing a Facebook post from the publishing house A-BA-BA-HA-LA-MA-HA. A video of Kostenko reciting the poem was shared on the publisher’s page. This gesture comes as cultural figures continue to rally behind troops amid the ongoing war.

Members of the 'Madar's Birds' brigade expressed their gratitude to the poet for her work. They noted that her words about 'iron' wings have taken on new symbolism, now evoking drones and aviation.

'For the fighters in our brigade, this poem is special because it speaks of the freedom that the sky gives a person,' brigade representatives stated.

They also emphasized that 'Wings' has become an unofficial anthem for pilots and all those defending Ukraine from the air.

Words of Support from the Brigade

The brigade also highlighted the importance of Kostenko's vocal support:

'Hearing the living voice and sincere backing of a Ukrainian literary legend is a great honor for us.'

Noting that Kostenko wrote the poem long before the era of drone warfare, the brigade pointed out that her poetry continues to take on fresh symbolic meaning. 'Lina Vasylivna’s words were written long before the phenomenon of drone warfare emerged, but like all genius poetry, they have gained new symbolic significance in the modern era,' they said.

Written nearly 70 years ago, 'Wings' continues to inspire new generations. The poem’s text includes lines that convey thoughts on freedom, dreams, and human nature. Among them:

• 'And truly, the winged need no ground.
• If there is no earth, there will be sky.
• If there is no field, there will be freedom.'

These lines have become a symbol of hope and faith in a better future.

The 'Madar's Birds' brigade thanked Lina Kostenko for her voice, which they say gives them strength:

'We thank Lina Vasylivna Kostenko for her voice, which adds to our strength.'

This event underscores the importance of cultural support for Ukrainian military personnel, especially in the context of the current conflict. Kostenko’s deeply philosophical poems find new life amid the struggle for independence, offering soldiers inspiration and motivation. In this way, poetry becomes not just an artistic expression but a vital element of moral support for those defending the country.