Twenty-four major Poems from Osip Mandelshtam

Mandelstam, Osip (1891–1938), translated by Kline, A. S. (contact-email)

Open Access logo

Osip Mandelstam (1891–1938) was a Russian poet whose work is celebrated for its classical style, density of allusion, and linguistic innovation. His most renowned poems include Silentium, which explores the theme of unexpressed thoughts, and The Age, offering a foreboding reflection on the cultural climate of his time. Tristia, recognised for its sombre beauty, delves into themes of exile and loss, mirroring Mandelstam’s own experiences under oppressive regimes. Insomnia. Homer. Taut canvas. highlights his mastery in blending personal emotion with classical tradition. Mandelstam’s work often navigates through the complexities of existence, merging the personal with the universal. His poetry is integral to understanding the intellectual and emotional landscape of early 20th-century Russian literature. This translation presents twenty-four of Mandelstam’s major poems.

Author Details

cover image

Kline, A. S.

Support Open-Access:

Your contribution keeps our classical translations available to all. Every dollar helps support classics education and funds the expansion of our catalogue. Value what we do? Donate now.

© Copyright, All Rights Reserved. This work may be freely reproduced, stored and transmitted, electronically or otherwise, for any non-commercial purpose. Conditions and Exceptions apply.