We Lived Happily During the War

"In a Time of Peace" by Ilya Kaminsky (2019)

Like “We Lived Happily During the War,” this poem bookends the collection, closing it. This poem, however, is far more explicit and specific about the violence in question, further bringing things “home” to American soil and the specifics of Philando Castille’s murder.

"9AM Bombardment" by Ilya Kaminsky (2009)

“9AM Bombardment” demonstrates what a town united in resistance looks like. Here, neither the speaker nor the characters are in tension to the fullness of discomfort because they are victims and protestors to oppression. But there is also an envisioning of community and resistance and meaningful action. This piece serves as a companion to “We Lived Happily During the War,” but offers a different perspective.

"Firing Squad" by Ilya Kaminsky (2019)

This poem, also from Deaf Republic, is one of the most intriguing because of the way the sunlight functions in it. Here, the traditional symbol stands for beauty, steadfastness, and the cycles of nature.

“I will never hear my father's voice”: Ilya Kaminsky on deafness and escaping the Soviet Union by Claire Armitstead (2019)

Writing for The Guardian, literary critic Claire Armitstead interviews Kaminsky and shares her experience exploring Kaminsky’s work.