Cry & Laugh: The Ukrainian Epic: Love and Conflict, #3

By Benak

Immerse yourself again in "Cry and Laugh". the third volume in the Ukrainian Epic series. This novel is a compelling and heart-wrenching novel that intertwines the poignant tales of love, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of individuals amidst the backdrop of the tumultuous and war-torn landscapes of Ukraine. This narrative masterfully captures the essence of human endurance and the power of love to triumph over adversity.

 

Set against the complex geopolitical conflicts in Ukraine, particularly in the Donbas region, the novel delves deep into the lives of its main characters, Sacha and Hanna, whose fortuitous encounter blossoms into profound love. Their story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, showcasing how love can flourish even in the darkest of times.

 

The narrative is skillfully woven, exploring themes of war, cultural identity, and the enduring quest for peace. The characters' journey through the challenges of a nation grappling with conflict and change serves as a mirror to the resilience and hope that define the Ukrainian people. The author delicately balances the grim realities of war with the beauty of human connection, creating a rich tapestry of emotion and depth.

 

The vivid portrayal of Ukrainian life, with its rich cultural heritage and undying hope for a peaceful future, provides a unique and authentic perspective. From the bustling streets of Kyiv to the serene landscapes of the Ukrainian countryside, the setting becomes a character in its own right, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Benak
• Release date: Jan 1, 2024
• ISBN: 9798223524021

Benak

Écrivain, poète et chroniqueur, Benak est surtout un grand rêveur qui croit en la magie des mots et en leur splendeur. Porteur d’un projet d’écriture tant ambitieux que prometteur, il met sa plume au service de l’humanité pour instruire et plaire. C’est au sang de son esprit et à l’encre de son cœur qu’il nous tisse des écrits de lumière. De la fiction à la non-fiction en passant par le roman, le récit, le conte pour enfant et la poésie, il traduit son imaginaire en nous proposant une écriture de belle facture, un agréable moment de littérature. S’escrimant toujours avec les mots pour le plaisir du dire et de l’écrire, il mène une vie simple, mais pas tout à fait tranquille. En citoyen du Monde très sensible, certains événements déteignent sur sa vie en y laissant des empreintes indélébiles. Philosophe, écrivain et poète engagé, il porte en lui les stigmates de l’injustice et de l’iniquité.

Book preview

1.

In the tumultuous whirlwind of Ukrainian history, where fate plays its enchanting and ruthless symphony, a particular year saw the emergence of an unexpected accord, an event of rare singularity. This accord took human form, that of a man with a new face, bringing sudden brightness into the darkness of uncertain days, troubled by political tumult and shattered dreams.

This man, a humorist and actor by profession, a composer of laughter and a master of the stage, emerged from the tumultuous waters of Ukrainian politics like a lighthouse in the night, a star in the darkened firmament, a tangible dream. Once known for his ability to turn the mundane into comedy, to make words and emotions dance, he found himself propelled onto a very different stage. It was that of political reality, where each word and gesture carries the weight of history.

His name, once synonymous with entertainment and art, began to resonate in the corridors of power and be chanted in the streets of cities. He became a symbol of renewal, a hope for a people tired of unfulfilled promises, a possibility of change in a world where constancy seemed to be the immutability of challenges.

Ascending to the presidency, this much-coveted and feared throne, he brought with him a promise of change, a vow of profound transformation, a vision of a better future. His words, marked by poetry and sincerity, resonated as a call to unity, an anthem to hope. His actions, like brushstrokes on the canvas of Ukrainian history, sketched a picture of a radiant future. His deep and penetrating gaze seemed to play a melody of optimism and determination.

He spoke of a future where peace and prosperity would be the mistresses of Ukrainian destiny, where happiness would no longer be a distant quest but a tangible reality. He dreamt of a united nation, strong in its diversity, rich in its cultures. He believed in love as a driving force, in unity as a pillar, in harmony as the ultimate goal.

In his ascent, he embodied the hope of a new Ukraine, an era where pragmatism and poetry would meet, where politics would be the art of building, not destroying. He symbolized the dream of a people to finally see one of their own, a man of the people, a son of the soil, take the reins of the country with the promise of a better tomorrow.

Thus, in the grand theater of Ukrainian history, this man, this actor turned president, was writing a new chapter, marked by audacity, hope, and a thirst for renewal. He was living proof that even in the darkest moments, it is possible to find light. Yes, even in the greatest confusion, one can find direction. Even in despair, one can find the strength to dream.

In the quiet of their home, Ivan and Maria found themselves in a moment of confidence and reflection. After dinner, as the night gently enveloped the outside world, Maria joined Ivan in his office, a steaming cup of tea in hand. Ivan, lost in his thoughts, greeted his wife with a thoughtful look.

You seem preoccupied, Ivan. Lately, you spend hours here, alone with your thoughts. What's happening? asked Maria, placing the cup in front of Ivan.

It's this man, our new president. I don't know, Maria... Is Ukraine really lacking experienced politicians to guide it? I don't understand this enthusiasm for a stage man, an actor, as our savior, replied Ivan, sipping his tea.

Maria sat opposite Ivan, her eyes reflecting attentive listening.

But isn't it the choice of the people, Ivan? A breath of change, perhaps?

A change, yes, but at what cost? Since his election, I keep questioning his ability to lead a country in crisis. I have this growing apprehension... what if it's a setup?

A setup? What do you mean?

I suspect a larger game, perhaps orchestrated by the Americans. I fear that this new president is just a pawn, their man, parachuted to the head of Ukraine to serve their interests in the region.

Maria listened, absorbing her husband's fears, while trying to find words to reassure him.

Ivan, these are serious accusations. Do you have proof of what you're advancing?

Proof, no. But my intuition, my years of observing politics... All this tells me that we should be cautious. We can't just accept things as they are presented.

Perhaps you're right, Ivan, perhaps we need to be cautious. But shouldn't we also give this change a chance? Maybe this president will bring something new, something good for our country, she said softly.

I'd like to believe, Maria, but the weight of history and the games of power make me wary. Ukraine is a torn country, and I fear that we are simply a playground for forces larger than us.

Maria took Ivan's hand, seeking to bring him a little comfort.

Whatever the forces at play, Ivan, we must believe in our country, in our people. We have survived so many trials... We will also survive this one.

Ivan looked at his wife, finding a bit of peace in her words.

You might be right, Maria. Maybe my skepticism blinds me. Maybe I should just hope for the best for our country, for our future.

In the silence of the night, Ivan and Maria shared a moment of deep connection, a mix of doubts and hopes, reflecting the complexity of the Ukrainian soul in these uncertain times.

You see, Maria, Ukraine is like a bridge between East and West, between Russia and Europe. Our geographical position, our history, everything places us at the heart of a major issue, he announced gravely.

Maria listened attentively, her eyes locked with her husband's.

On one side, Russia, with whom we share deep historical and cultural ties. On the other, Europe and the West, representing aspirations for democracy, freedom, a certain vision of the world, he continued.

Yes, I understand. But this position must surely also give us a certain importance, an opportunity?

That's true, but it's also a delicate position. We are like a chessboard on which the great powers play their games. Russia sees us as a natural ally, an extension of its influence. The West, on the other hand, sees us as a potential partner, a counterbalance to Russian influence.

And where does that place us, Ivan? Between these two forces?

It places us in a very fragile situation. If we lean too much to one side, we risk losing our sovereignty, our identity. If we choose the other, we risk confrontation, perhaps even war. It's a dangerous dance, Maria.

It's frightening to think that the future of our country can be decided by people who don't live here, who don't understand our culture, our struggles.

Exactly! That's why the role of our president is so crucial. He must navigate between these powerful neighbors, while preserving our interests, our independence. It's a Herculean task.

Maria nodded, absorbing the complexity of the situation.

It makes me realize how heavy each decision is. I hope our president will find the right balance.

Me too, Maria, me too. Ukraine deserves to find its place in the world, a place that respects our history, our culture, and our aspirations.

The couple remained silent for a while, each lost in their thoughts about the future of their country. In this nocturnal dialogue, Ivan and Maria represented the voice of many Ukrainians, torn between hope and fear, between pride in their heritage and uncertainty about their future.

Ivan broke the silence first. He had many worries on his mind.

Maria, the quagmire in Donbas... it's a tragedy that continues to intensify. The situation there is alarming. The war has taken on proportions we could never have imagined, he announced with a grave voice.

Maria listened, her heart heavy at the thought of the suffering endured by so many people.

The separatists are determined to go all the way. They have the support of Russia, and that makes the situation even more complicated. It's not just a struggle for control of a region; it's become a symbol of the broader struggle between East and West, he continued in the same tone.

It's so sad to think that it's brothers fighting against each other...

Yes, it's a war between enemy brothers. But what worries me even more is that this war in Donbas is just a prelude to what could await Ukraine. If tensions between Russia and the West continue to escalate, we could find ourselves at the heart of a much larger conflict.

A larger conflict? You mean... she asked with a hint of anxiety.

Yes, a conflict that could engulf the entire Ukraine. The war in Donbas could be the beginning of a broader confrontation between the great powers, with our country caught in the middle.

Maria looked at Ivan, fear and uncertainty clearly visible in her eyes.

What can we do, Ivan? We're just ordinary citizens.

We can keep hope, Maria. Hope that our leaders will make the right choices, that diplomacy will prevail over war. And we can support those who fight for peace, who work for a better future for our country.

The couple sat in silence, contemplating the uncertain future of their country. In their hearts, there was both the fear of the unknown and the hope for a better tomorrow. They represented the spirit of millions of Ukrainians, caught in the turmoil of a complex history, fervently hoping for a future of peace and stability.

Ivan, with passion in his voice, continued to share his vision with Maria. He was convinced that Ukraine needed a man of exceptional stature, a man whose vision transcended the usual expectations.

You understand, Maria, Ukraine needs a man who is not merely a president, a leader, a commander. He must be much more. He must be a poet, an artist, a lover, a man who sees beyond the mountains, hears beyond the oceans, feels beyond the stars, he said, his eyes shining with emotion.

Maria listened, absorbed by the depth of his thoughts.

This man must understand that politics is not just war, competition, struggle. It is also a dance, a song, a prayer. It's love, passion, desire, he added, looking her straight in the eye.

"A man