Both Boys Are at the Front. How Could They Be Anywhere Else?

The upcoming publication of Victoria Amelina's powerful work, "Looking at Women, Looking at War. A Diary of War and Justice," offers a poignant glimpse into the realities of life on the front lines and the personal toll of conflict. Set for release in May 2026 by Krytyka Polityczna in Warsaw, the book promises to be a significant contribution to the literature of war and resilience.

Amelina's personal reflections reveal the profound moral dilemmas faced by individuals navigating the ongoing war. Her account of deciding to travel to Kyiv, despite a promise to her son to remain in Lviv, underscores the constant tension between personal safety and a sense of duty or necessity. The late-night decision, made under the shadow of a curfew, highlights the unpredictable and often fraught nature of wartime existence.

The author's acknowledgment of the risks, including the possibility of her child being left with the memory of a broken promise should something happen to her, speaks volumes about the emotional burden carried by those living through this conflict. Her reliance on fellow writers, like Kateryna Michalicyna, for support further illustrates the strong sense of community and solidarity that emerges even amidst such adversity. This book is not just a diary; it is a testament to the human spirit's endurance and the enduring power of storytelling in the face of unimaginable challenges.