you must not, under any circumstances, allow yourself to hate. Not because your tormentors have not earned it. But if you allow hatred to take root, it would flourish and spread during your years in the camps, driving out everything… — Irina Ratushinskaya Copy Share Image
All this [Soviet labor camp for political prisoners] brings about one marked change in your physical appearance; by the end of your first year, you will have what are known as 'zek's eyes.' The look in a zek's eyes is impossible to describe, but once encountered, it is never forgotten. When you emerge, your friends, embracing you, will exclaim: 'Your… — Irina Ratushinskaya Copy Share
you must not, under any circumstances, allow yourself to hate. Not because your tormentors have not earned it. But if you allow hatred to… — Irina Ratushinskaya Copy Share Image
Russian literature saved my soul. When I was a young girl in school and I asked what is good and what is evil, no… — Irina Ratushinskaya Copy Share Image
