Ilya Kaminsky Poetry

Ilya Kaminsky is a renowned Ukrainian-American poet, translator, and advocate for international literature. Born in Odesa in 1977, he lost most of his hearing due to a medical error at age four. His family emigrated to the U.S. in 1993, seeking asylum. Kaminsky’s poetry, characterized by vivid imagery and a blend of folklore, love, and resistance, reflects his experiences of displacement and resilience. His celebrated works include Dancing in Odesa and Deaf Republic, which explore themes of war, love, and political struggle. He has received numerous awards, including a Guggenheim Fellowship, and is recognized for promoting global poetry translation.

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We Lived Happily during the War

‘We Lived Happily during the War’ reflects complex feelings of guilt for US foreign policy decisions through the lens of one individual.

Ilya Kaminsky brings his complex feelings about the U.S. and a strong stance against war to this short but impactful poem. It captures his personal struggles with living in America—a country he appreciates yet questions, especially its role in global conflicts. Kaminsky’s poem reflects many of the themes that shape his work and his thoughts on justice and responsibility.

And when they bombed other people's houses, we

protested
but not enough, we opposed them but not

enough.

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