Tatyana Dordzhieva, poems

Abstract

Tatyana reads the following 10 poems.Mother:Tatyana wrote this poem to her mother who froze to death on her way to Siberia when the Kalmyks were deported. Many Kalmyks died either en route or upon their arrival in Siberia. Tatyana’s sister also died of hunger and cold. Tatyana brought up her two younger brothers. My Native Steppe: Written by Tatyana in 1999, this poem is about Tatyana’s love for the Kalmyk steppe, her ancestral land. Exile:In this poem Tatyana recounts her experience of being deported to Siberia. When the Kalmyks were rounded up for transportation, Tatyana was visiting her maternal grandmother. Her grandmother died on the way to exile. The day of deportation: In this poem, Tatyana recounts what happened on 28 December 1943. On that day, early in the morning, when Kalmyks were still asleep, Russian soldiers rushed into their houses. In panic and not understanding what was happening, the Kalmyks were transported to the train station and sent to Siberia. Turns in life: In this poem Tatiana recount what she has witnessed in her long life. About me: Tatyana wrote this poem in 2014 about herself. She witnessed both joy and sadness in her life, including an idyllic childhood in the steppe, exile, hunger, the death of her loved ones, and hard work. From me to you: Tatyana dedicates this poem to her parents for giving her life. She also thanks life itself for giving her joy, children and grandchildren. Gurvan-Khuduk: In this poem, Tatyana talks about a place called Gurvan-Khuduk where her clan lived before exile. This poem is about the people that lived in that place. A praise to the builders of BAM: This poem praises the builders of BAM. My well wishes: In this poem Tatyana elaborates on the importance of work and perseverance. She wishes her grandchildren to be hardworking, to live in prosperity and peace, to learn the Kalmyk language and culture, and never witness hardships and grief.