Rìčnik Ruskoj Bursy (Jan 2018)
Фльоринка – лемківскє місце памяти
Abstract
Florynka: A Lemko Realm of Memory The article refers to the concept of realm of memory (les lieu de mémoire) developed and popularized by Pierre Nora. The notion of realm of memory is presented and then utilized for symptomatic reading and interpretation of the workings of memory as it develops around a topographical location. The author shows the essentialization and sacralization of names and concepts referring to the political activity of the Lemkos, such as Florynka, the Rusyn National Republic of the Lemkos and the national council. It is demonstrated that similar processes of memory are affecting names and personal traces located in the Florynka realm of memory. Furthermore, following Jan Assmann, the article distinguishes between two manners in which memory is preserved: either by means of ritual coherence, characteristic of oral tradition, or by means of textual coherence, implemented in written form. Finally, a question is posed about the goals and needs of a community built on memory, in this case of the Lemko community, namely to whom memory belongs to and whom it serves. A tentative answer to these questions indicates identity-related goals, which would be a direct and indirect continuation of certain currents of thought and action that were being developed in the years 1918‑ 1921. The entire article emphasizes the activist form of collective memory, which negotiates with established stereotypes and at the same time contributes to preserve them.
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