Transitional State

Transitional State by Haska Shiyan is a bold and evocative collection of contemporary Ukrainian poetry that captures the emotional landscape of a generation navigating change, identity, and personal truth. Published in 2025 by Видавництво Старого Лева, this striking book of poems presents the author’s unmistakable voice — fearless, ironic, and deeply expressive. Through vivid language and raw, atmospheric imagery, Shiyan explores themes of bodily experience, emotional tension, and the tension between inner self and external world, making this work an essential read for modern poetry lovers.

At its core, Transitional State reflects the liminal moments of life when past certainties dissolve and new realities emerge. Shiyan’s poetic voice melds sharp observation with heartfelt introspection; moments of cynicism give way to authentic vulnerability as the text moves through themes of fear, love, rage, and resilience. The poems confront the reader with honest, unfiltered emotion, offering both familiarity and challenge.

The book’s compact structure — 128 pages of tightly woven verses — makes it both accessible and deeply resonant. It includes black-and-white illustrations that amplify the mood and intensity of the writing, creating a true synergy between visual and verbal art. Whether you are a dedicated reader of poetry or someone discovering Ukrainian contemporary literature for the first time, Transitional State provides a rich, stimulating experience that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Ideal for readers who appreciate lyrical depth, bold voice, and emotional honesty, this collection speaks to anyone navigating the pressures and possibilities of growth and change. With its blend of irony, pathos, and imaginative strength, Transitional State stands as one of the most compelling poetry collections in modern Ukrainian literature.