Krasnoyarsk feels like Florence in some ways. It can be admired from lovely observation decks on the hills. There is a picture-perfect river that divides the city, although the Yenisei is three times wider than the Arno. Beautiful natural surroundings literally embrace the residential areas. It takes up to thirty minutes to reach the ski slopes. When locals are asked, "Where is the taiga?", they smile and point to the nearby woods.

Rasul Gamzatov, a nationally acclaimed Avar poet, was born on September 8, 1923, 100 years ago. He was the author of "Cranes", perhaps the most touching song lyrics about war and fallen soldiers. Mr. Gamzatov did not write in Russian. Thus, we know his poetry through translations of other Russian poets. Nevertheless, one of his friends said, "Translators are unable to think up anything here".