On the anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, British actor Ian McKellen publicly shared a poem by Ukrainian veteran Arthur Drony, drawing attention to the ongoing conflict. Known internationally for his roles as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings and Magneto in X-Men, McKellen posted an English translation of Drony’s poem First to Corinthians, highlighting the veteran’s experiences and resilience.
Profile of Ian McKellen
Sir Ian Murray McKellen is a renowned British actor, knighted in 1991 by Queen Elizabeth II. His distinguished career includes multiple Tony and Golden Globe wins and nominations for both the Oscar and BAFTA awards. Beyond his acting achievements, McKellen is also recognized for his openness about his sexual orientation and his consistent support for LGBTQ+ rights.
Arthur Drony’s Background and Military Service
Before the war escalated in Ukraine, Arthur Drony was an event manager at Old Lion Publishing House and had published a poetry collection titled Dormitory No. 6. In March 2022, Drony enlisted in the Ukrainian Armed Forces, participating in combat operations in Donetsk, the Kharkiv region, and Zaporizhzhia. He suffered a severe injury in October 2024, which led to his demobilization due to disability. In 2025, he was awarded the Yuri Shevelov Prize for his book Hemingway Knows Nothing, which draws heavily from his wartime experiences.
Impact of Drony’s Work on Culture and Memory
The publication of Drony’s poetry in both Ukrainian and English has renewed interest in his literary contributions and the narratives of veterans like him. Social media circulation of his poems and related videos provides a unique insight into how culture and cinema intersect with the realities of war. These works serve as reminders of the importance of remembrance and solidarity amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and within the broader cultural context.
Upcoming English Release and Readership
Drony’s debut prose collection Hemingway Knows Nothing has sold over 40,000 copies and is slated for English publication in 2026. The book’s focus on wartime reflections continues to captivate readers and expand awareness of Ukraine’s situation through literature.
