“Be kind to yourself. Remember that when you abuse yourself, you will experience the anger, regret, and apathy of the bully as well as the depression, anxiety, and insecurity of the victim. Whatever you do, be kind to yourself.”

Russian poet and translator, born in 1973. She is best known for her lyrical, introspective verse that explores themes of memory, identity, and the quiet beauty of everyday life. Her translations of classical and contemporary poetry bridge Eastern and Western literary traditions.