The island of Cypris is a metaphor and inspiration. In poems dedicated to Cyprus, the poet combines philosophy, history and sensuality.
Gabriel Romanovich Derzhavin (1743–1816) is one of the largest Russian poets of the 18th century, a prominent representative of Russian classicism and an outstanding statesman.
His work became a significant stage in the development of Russian literature, combining the traditions of high poetry with a lively and sensual depiction of human experiences. Derzhavin glorified nature, the greatness of the empire, philosophical reflections on life and death, and also glorified human virtue. His works, such as the ode "Felitsa", "God" and "Waterfall", are distinguished by their sublime style, deep philosophical ideas and masterly use of language.
Mentions of Cyprus in Derzhavin’s works
A special place in his work is occupied by descriptions of exotic places and cultures, among which mentions of Cyprus take their place of honor.
In two of his poems, Derzhavin directly or indirectly mentions the island.
Derzhavin’s poem “Ruins” was composed in 1797. It is a philosophical reflection on the frailty of greatness and the inevitability of the destruction of everything earthly. In this work, Derzhavin combines elements of classicism with emerging romanticism, creating an atmosphere of majestic melancholy.
The mention of Cyprus in the poem serves as one of the symbols of the ancient world, reminding the reader of once powerful civilizations. Cyprus, known for its rich history associated with ancient empires, becomes Derzhavin’s basis for creating a metaphor for lost greatness and a warning about the frailty of human achievements. Through the author's image of Cyprus, the poet turns to historical memory, inviting him to think about the inevitability of oblivion even of the most powerful kingdoms.
Here, on the island of Cyprus, a magnificent temple stood: Pillars, valances, pyramids, and the dome shone with gold. Here, overshadowed by oak trees, there was a carved door to it, covered with a green overhang, leading inside the sanctuary.
In addition, in the image of deserted Cyprus, there is a hint of Tsarskoye Selo, which was deserted after the death of Empress Catherine II. The late empress is depicted under the name Cyprida, an allusion to the goddess Aphrodite:
Cyprus was sitting here among the myrtle trees, Laughing, looking at the children, Looking at the admiring swans who raised their wings.
Gold-Cypriot: what kind of wine did Derzhavin sing about?
Another poem where Cyprus is indirectly mentioned is “Different Wines”. It was composed in St. Petersburg in 1782 with the note “Written without any purpose for young people.” The poem glorifies different types of wine. The third stanza also mentions Cypriot wine:
Here is the golden Cypriot wine, Let's drink to the health of the fair-haired ones. How sweet it is to the heart With the kiss of beautiful lips! You are also good, white girl, - So kiss me, soul!
The “golden Cypriot wine” reflects the famous Commandaria, which has been produced on the island for many centuries.
The text was prepared based on Wikipedia materials and comments to the publication “Anacreontic Songs” of the “Literary Monuments” series (Nauka publishing house, 1986).