From the book
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…Right before my departure, I was offered to visit a village ten versts away to see the holiday festivities. I was glad for the opportunity. Huge village by the riverbank of Olonka river was filled with a crowd that moved as a long snake along its only street. Groups of young Korelian ladies from neighbouring places started to gather after lunch time. They displaced the previous crowd and dominated the street. They went in two rows each on one side of the street towards one another. Regiments of healthy strong dazzling young women were marching before my eyes – a whole army of them. The head of the parade was right here in front of me but the tail of it could not be seen. Another row, shining with pearls, silk, and even brocade, walked towards this one. After reaching the end of the street the procession turned like a coiling snake, and went back to meet the other, rival column in the middle of the village. It was very original picturesque scene, in which authentic Korelian combinations of black and brown colours prevailed. Young lads were standing by the roadsides. From time-to-time groups of them followed the parade. Sharp harmonica’s sound charmed and bewitched local beauties. This festival was going on the whole day. There were stands in several places alongside the street, selling candies, nuts, and other treats. Translated by Margarita Matthew, 2024 |