Truthful words

Kupalo songfolkComposerArranger

Mar 19

Written By andrew waller

Translated Text

Score Ukrainian

Score Transliterated

Truthful words | Слова, що прості | Slova, shcho prosti

Composer: Zenoby Lawryshyn | Зеновій Лавришин
Lyricist: Oleh Olzhych | Олег Ольжич

In this song, based on the poetry of Oleh Olzhych (pseudonym of Oleh Kandyba) (1907-1944), the poet extols that simple words are sufficient to express the love for one's country and culture. Olzhych is a well-known writer and poet who had a significant influence on literature on the Ukrainian diaspora. He was also an archeologist, Ukrainian patriot, and leader in the struggle for Ukrainian independence. The desire for Ukrainian self-determination figures prominently in his literary works. Olzhych was the son of another celebrated Ukrainian poet and political activist, Oleksandr Oles. Born in 1907 in Zhytomyr, Ukraine, Olzhych completed his archeology studies at Charles University in Prague before returning to Ukraine. During World War II, Olzhych directed the activities of the Organization for Ukrainian Nationalists and was instrumental in the formation of the Ukrainian National Council. His untimely death at age 36 in a German concentration camp in 1944 solidified his reputation as a Ukrainian nationalist and martyr for independence. Zenoby Lawryshyn, a prolific Ukrainian Canadian composer based in Toronto, Canada, was born in 1943 in Rudnyky, Ukraine. He emigrated to Canada with his family in 1949. As a composer, Lawryshyn’s works are varied. They include two Masses, a Requiem, individual liturgical pieces, Christmas music, two symphonies, chamber music, incidental music for plays and music for three films. He has collected and edited works of songs of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army.

Over the years Vesnivka has included classical works composed to the poetry of great literary figures, including Oleh Olzhych, in many of its concerts. In November 2007, Vesnivka dedicated an entire concert program to the works of Olzhych as a tribute to this poet. The Olzhych Foundation, which supports research and education and is based in Toronto, Canada, is a long-time supporter of Vesnivka.