La poesia ucraina come fonte di ispirazione della musica metal: un esempio di dialogo con la cultura ‘alta’

Metal music (especially some of its more aggressive and controversial subgenres) is often considered a ‘second-rate’ form of expression. However, it is often enriched with literary references, philosophical reflections and fruitful connections with other artistic forms. Although it does not necessarily represent a politicised counter-cultural universe, it is nevertheless true that, in some of its fringes, it is possible to trace a more or less evident ideological discourse and a use of artistic expression as a form of protest. As other European countries, Ukraine also has a thriving metal music scene, and many bands and musicians in this milieu use the works of the most representative national poets as lyrics for their songs. In this essay, we analyse some of the most representative cases, attempting to establish an initial taxonomy in terms of the poets used, preferred themes and the possible socio-political motivations that inspire the musicians in question.