Perseverance Through Melody: A Christmas Carol's Role in Ukraine's Resistance

Despite the grave circumstances in Pokrovsk, the resilient spirit of its residents shines through with the carol "Shchedryk," also known as the "Carol of the Bells." As the threat of Russian encroachment looms, musicians incorporate the iconic tune into their military traditions, fostering camaraderie and strength among soldiers. This cultural symbol continues to resonate with those who remember their home, highlighting the importance of identity in the face of adversity.

The city of Pokrovsk, nestled in eastern Ukraine, is the birthplace of the world-renowned Christmas carol "Shchedryk," commonly known as the "Carol of the Bells." However, this year, the city shows little sign of Christmas cheer, with only a thin layer of snow covering the deserted streets and damaged structures, accompanied by the haunting sounds of artillery fire. Russian troops are perilously close, closing in on the city center as they aim to erase not only the buildings but the cultural identity embedded within them.

The population of Pokrovsk has largely fled from the advancing threat, leaving behind a community stripped of gas, electricity, and running water. Among those remaining are individuals like Ihor, 59, who highlights the ever-present danger, describing daily life as akin to “living on a powder keg.” Oksana, 43, remains trapped in her home, fearful of the chaos outside but venturing out only to gather essential supplies to survive. She expresses deep concern for the fate of her city, believing that Pokrovsk’s fall into enemy hands is inevitable.

Meanwhile, the city gears up for potential devastation. Statues honoring Mykola Leontovych, the composer of "Shchedryk," have already been relocated for safekeeping, with his music school currently vacant and boarded up. Leontovych may not be well-recognized in the West, but his melodic creation is cherished globally, first transformed into the popular carol during his tenure in Pokrovsk from 1904 to 1908.

Now, as former residents seek refuge and a semblance of normalcy in locations like Dnipro, they strive to keep the town’s musical legacy alive. A poignant moment arises with 13-year-old Anna Hasych, who fled Pokrovsk with her family but continues to play "Shchedryk" on the piano, sharing with her mother that the tune once reminded her of joyful winter nights, now tinged with sorrow and longing for home.

Utilizing music as a beacon of hope, one Ukrainian military band has adopted "Shchedryk" as their anthem on the frontline. Their commander, Colonel Bohdan Zadorozhnyy, explains how the song serves to uplift soldiers' spirits, showcasing an indomitable spirit that remains resolute in the face of adversity. Soldiers like Roman incorporate makeshift instruments to create rhythm, proclaiming "Shchedryk" as a representation of their freedom and resilience.

Though the prospect of losing Pokrovsk looms large, the efforts to preserve its cultural heritage remain steadfast. Angelina Rozhkova, director of the town's History Museum, has been instrumental in salvaging artifacts from Leontovych’s life and ensuring that the essence of Pokrovsk endures regardless of the outcome. For the people, the fight is not only for territory but for their cultural legacy. They embody a new mantra that underscores the connection between preservation and victory: "keeping and saving equals winning.”

In an ongoing battle for identity and existence, Pokrovsk's legacy, much like Leontovych’s music, continues to resonate with extraordinary resilience, accentuating the enduring power of culture in confronting the challenges of war. The fight for Ukraine’s independence, personified by its cherished carol, transforms pain into a declaration of hope.