Boris Dralyuk Translates Alexander Voloshin's Poetry on Exile

Many translators of Russian literature often focus on prominent figures, yet Dralyuk distinguishes himself by bringing attention to lesser-known poets. Numerous poets, including Voloshin, fled the Russian Empire after the 1917 revolution and found themselves in Los Angeles, where Dralyuk lived from childhood into his thirties. His translations serve both as a tribute to these predecessors and a personal journey of self-discovery, reflecting his own nostalgia for his Odesa childhood.

Dralyuk frequently shares insights on his website, revealing how his personal experiences intertwine with his translations. A significant figure in his work is Vernon Duke, a poet and composer from Russia, whose relationship with Dralyuk's wife inspired one of Dralyuk’s recent translations of Duke's poetry. The warmth in Duke's words highlights an emotional depth that resonates even in contemporary poetry.

Voloshin, born around 1884 in Russia and passing away in Los Angeles in 1960, uses a “mock epic” style in "Sidetracked," which captures the essence of his life journey. The first chapter’s swift narrative covers key historical events from Kyiv's foundations to the 1917 revolution. The poem's chapters detail Voloshin’s experiences in independent Ukraine, the Russian Civil War, and his subsequent life in New York and Los Angeles, where he worked various odd jobs.

A striking feature of "Sidetracked" is its rhythmic energy, particularly in chapters describing life in post-revolution Ukraine. Voloshin’s lines evoke a sense of celebration and impending loss, contrasting the joy of festivity with the awareness that such moments are fleeting. The poem’s linguistic nuances, including a clever play on words involving the Ukrainian term for "language," further illustrate the complexities of identity and culture amongst exiles.

Though "Sidetracked" has remained largely overlooked, Dralyuk’s translation underscores the relevance of Voloshin's experiences in today's context. The vivid details of Ukrainian traditions and the struggles of exiles to adapt in Hollywood deftly weave history with personal narrative. For instance, Voloshin emphasizes the challenges of procuring visas, mirroring contemporary discussions around migration.

Dralyuk also brings attention to the broader literary context, connecting Voloshin’s work to other émigrés like Gaito Gazdanov and Teffi, thereby enriching the understanding of Russian émigré literature.

Dralyuk's own poetry often reflects similar themes of light and darkness, showcasing his multifaceted relationship with translation and his own literary heritage. His dedication to these oft-forgotten voices reaffirms the lasting impact of their stories on contemporary audiences.