Ilya Kharkōw

“I'm a writer from Ukraine, but I don't want to be labeled as a Ukrainian writer. In Ukraine, I'm seen as a criminal because I’ve rejected military conscription. Until now, due to the forced mobilization a great number of men in Ukraine are persecuted and humiliated while locked in the country.
Fortunately, I was able to escape and seek refuge in Europe. The Ukrainian authorities' intend to deport me. War supporters hate me. My native town is occupied by Russia. Every day I experience difficulties of emigration. But all this inspires me to write. I don't hold any illusions that my work will miraculously turn everyone into a pacifist, eliminate homophobia, or prevent teenagers from committing suicide. While people kill each other in different parts of the world, I aim to create something beautiful, intimate, and precious - much like a first ejaculation.” https://www.ikharkow.com