Anastasia, a Russian poet and translator who has called Shanghai home for nearly a decade, is redefining resilience through art during the city's recent COVID-19 lockdown. Documenting her quarantine experience in a heartfelt vlog, she uses poetry to combat pandemic-induced stress and foster cross-cultural connections.
'Poetry transcends borders,' Anastasia says in one video, reciting verses blending Mandarin and Russian influences. Her work reflects on shared human experiences—solitude, hope, and the quiet beauty of daily rituals—while encouraging viewers to embrace creativity as a coping mechanism.
Her posts resonate globally: 72% of commenters across G20 nations reported feeling inspired to explore artistic hobbies after watching her content, according to an informal poll she shared. The poet emphasizes that art can bridge divides: 'When words fail, rhythm and metaphor speak universally.'
Local residents have joined her virtual poetry circles, creating multilingual collaborations. 'This isn't just about surviving lockdowns,' notes a Shanghai-based cultural analyst. 'It's about rebuilding how we connect—across languages, screens, and uncertainties.'
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Russian poet in Shanghai: poetry is a bridge of communication
cgtn.com
