Top 5 Thoughtful Essays on 'Patriotism' by Ilya Ehrenburg

'Patriotism' is an excerpt from I. Ehrenburg's article 'Trial by Fire'. It serves both as an awakening, bringing forth the deepest, most beautiful emotions that lay dormant within the human spirit, and as a powerful call to unite the Soviet people during the harrowing challenges of World War II (1941 - 1945).

The structure of the essay can be interpreted in various ways. It is typically seen as having two parts: the first focuses on patriotism rooted in familiar, personal connections, while the second emphasizes patriotism tested and proven in the fight to defend the homeland. Another interpretation draws upon the backdrop of war, recognizing that patriotism manifests in two distinct levels. This article follows the second interpretation.

Initially, patriotism appears as a small, unassuming stream, not yet expansive or profound. It is closely tied to one’s environment and nature, much like how 'fish swim with patriotism, birds sing for the sky' (as poet Tổ Hữu suggests). These are natural, instinctive reflections we all share. A tree in front of the house, a street by the river, the sweet scent of autumn pears – these are 'the simplest things'. In these descriptions, a melody of love for one's homeland quietly emerges, albeit vaguely. Yet, this is the seed of patriotism, the beginning.

The intensity of this feeling of patriotism only comes to the forefront when faced with life-altering events, especially during times of danger and challenge. For example, the traditional Vietnamese verse 'I miss my homeland...' only expresses longing when separated from one’s home. However, the stakes in this case are higher: war has erupted, and Russia's fate hangs by a thread. In such a grim context, the Russian people began to view their homeland through a different lens. A seemingly simple phrase—'war reveals the beauty of one’s homeland'—is actually a pivotal moment in this transformation. 'War' serves as a marker, signifying the shift from citizens to Soviet citizens, each now bearing sacred responsibility.

To fully grasp the depth of this statement, one must place it within the specific historical context of Russia: a year after Germany's invasion, Russian forces were forced into a tactical retreat. The possibility that 'Russia may cease to exist' emerged. In this dire situation, innocent affection for the homeland quickly turned into a profound reflection, as what was once cherished might soon be lost. The peaceful, idyllic scenes of the past now take on a somber meaning. The beauty of nature shines through only in fleeting moments. The ordinary becomes extraordinary in the intense emotions it now evokes. All these elements become ingrained in the people’s very essence: the tree, the street, the pear’s fragrance—soon they will be overshadowed by the brutal realities of war. Only in this atmosphere could the Russian people truly understand the 'beauty of their homeland'.

Russia, or more broadly the Soviet Union, is home to a variety of landscapes, each beautiful and peaceful in its own way. It is a land of poetry and music. Few places can match the magic of the bright June nights in the far North or the suspended moments of summer in Ukraine. For those seeking picturesque landscapes, Georgia offers unexpected pleasures, with its sunlit rocks and shimmering silver streams, accompanied by the hospitality of its nomadic people offering wine in leather pouches.

The grandeur and history of Russia are reflected in the monuments like the bronze statues of horsemen in Leningrad and the Kremlin in Moscow, symbolizing the heart of the nation. Yet the writer does not aim to flaunt this beauty. Instead of highlighting the shine and pomp of industrial civilization, the writer emphasizes nature’s timeless layers, the deep cultural history embedded in each region. The personal tone of the essay speaks to the individual, reflecting a universal bond shared by all Soviet citizens, where every land, every region, is part of the collective body of Russia itself, and the writer's own heart.

The climax of the essay is in the final line: 'The stream flows into the river, the river flows into the Volga, and the Volga meets the sea.' This is not just the natural flow of water but also the metaphor for human life: 'The love for home, for village, for region, becomes love for the motherland.' It is not just a change in quantity but a transformation in quality, like the storm that arises from the wind. The Vietnamese proverb 'Those who sow the wind will reap the storm' comes to mind here. Enemies who challenge Russia will come to understand the depth of Russian patriotism, for this love can only be tested through the fires of war. And the undeniable truth that emerged from the harsh winter of 1941 was that 'if Russia is lost, what is life worth?' This truth echoed in the victorious sounds of artillery as the Soviet forces fought back, raising the flag of triumph at the enemy's doorstep.

The essay’s logical argument follows a clear structure: Patriotism is inherent in every person. When war breaks out, this patriotism is awakened and will prove itself through immense strength. The first two points present realities (though invisible), while the third is a forecast (soon to be seen firsthand). These ideas seem self-evident, yet enemies failed to grasp them (not only proven in the Soviet Union’s victory but also in the resilience of Vietnam’s resistance against colonial and imperial powers shortly thereafter). Alongside this logical argument is a poetic, deeply moving expression, capturing the profound beauty of the Russian spirit. Ehrenburg’s writing is akin to unearthing the soul’s deepest layers, revealing the immense inner strength that allowed the Russian people to transform it into a weapon capable of overcoming even the most devastating bombs of the enemy.

Spiritually, 'Patriotism' serves as Russia’s version of a national call to arms, much like the historical 'Hịch Tướng Sĩ' of Vietnam. However, instead of addressing a limited audience (such as soldiers), it speaks to the entire nation, not drawing from established doctrines but from the simplest, most universal human emotions. Its democratic, all-encompassing tone is clearly reflected in this famous political essay.

The text "Patriotism" is an excerpt from the famous essay "The Trial by Fire" by the writer Ilya Ehrenburg, written in late June 1942, during the harshest phase of the Great Patriotic War, when the Soviet people were fighting the Nazi invaders (1941-1945). The essay explains what patriotism is and how the power of patriotism will help defeat any enemy.

According to the author, "Patriotism begins with the love for the closest things: the love for the tree in front of the house, the love for the small street that leads to the riverbank, the affection for the delicate fragrance of autumn pears, or the scent of the steppe grass mingled with strong liquor." Indeed, our homeland consists of the closest and most familiar things, shaping the environment around us. Loving our country starts with cherishing these intimate, familiar aspects.

In wartime, patriotism rises to an even greater height. This is because war threatens to destroy what we hold dear. Faced with this threat, every Soviet citizen realized the beauty of their homeland. "The people of the North recall the forests... People from Ukraine long for the sight of sunflowers... The people from Georgia cherish the mountain air..." It turns out that patriotism is universal. In the face of war's destruction, the Vietnamese also have beautiful poems about their homeland:

"My homeland has a river of emerald green,

Reflecting the crystal-clear water that mirrors the bamboo trees".

(Tế Hanh - Remembering the River of my Homeland)

Thus, the homeland appears simple, close, and endearing, a place where memories are cherished. As a rule: "A stream flows into the river, the river into the great Volga River, and the Volga flows to the sea. The love for home, for village, for countryside, eventually turns into love for the homeland." In times of war, this love for the homeland motivates people to take up arms to defend their country. Patriotism becomes the source of bravery. Ehrenburg expressed it well: "Thieves and spies may perform daring acts, but no one calls them heroes."

They put their hearts into their work, but their efforts lack soul. History forgets the names of notorious criminals, those who are risk-takers for personal gain. History remembers the names of those who gave their lives for a cause, for the people, for humanity, for a better society." Criminals and spies may act recklessly, but their actions are for selfish motives. Patriots are ready to die for their country. Their death becomes immortal, "planting seeds" of a new life, breathing fresh hope into the hearts of millions."

Indeed, in the wartime history of Vietnam, countless immortal deaths "planted seeds" of new life, such as those of Nguyễn Văn Cừ, Hà Huy Tập, Lý Tự Trọng, Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, and Nguyễn Văn Trỗi... History forever honors them, for they have laid down their lives to make history.

Following the ideals of those who came before us, let us each contribute our efforts to build a prosperous and beautiful country.

Ilya Ehrenburg (1891 – 1967) was a prominent Soviet writer and an outstanding journalist during World War II. His works are infused with the spirit of patriotism and revolutionary heroism of the Russian people. His life stands as a shining example of relentless struggle and labor. He made significant contributions to modern Soviet literature.

The essay "Patriotism" is excerpted from the article "Testing the Fire" written by Ilya Ehrenburg in 1942, during the early stages of the Great Patriotic War against Nazi Germany. It is considered an immortal hymn to the roots and strength of patriotism in the Russian people. The essay reflects the author's profound, heartfelt patriotism and that of the Soviet people during the harsh trials of the war. The essay also presents a universal truth: Patriotism begins with a love for the simplest things. A love for home, village, and the countryside grows into a love for the nation.

In this passage, the author explains the origins of patriotism. The writer's observation stems from real-life experience: Patriotism initially manifests as love for the most ordinary things. Then, he discusses the love for one's homeland in a specific context. The battle to protect the motherland makes every Soviet citizen recognize the beauty of their familiar homeland. This is illustrated by a series of vivid images that depict the unique beauty of various regions across the Soviet Union. The passage culminates in a universal statement: "Streams flow into rivers, rivers into the vast Volga, and the Volga flows into the sea." A love for home, village, and the countryside becomes a love for the nation.

The source of patriotism is confirmed, expanded, and elevated into a universal truth by the end of the passage. To convey the unique beauty of different regions across the vast Soviet Union, the author selects representative details from various areas. From the northernmost regions of Russia to the southwestern mountains of Georgia, from the tranquil villages of Urkhuna to the grand and dreamy city of Leningrad... Each image, although evoked through nostalgia, highlights the individual beauty of each place, all imbued with the deep affection and pride the people have for their homeland.

Ilya Ehrenburg transformed the abstract concept of patriotism into something concrete and easily understood: Patriotism begins with love for the simplest things—like loving a tree planted in front of the house, the small street that leads to the riverbank, the fragrance of autumn pears, or the herbs of the meadow with a hint of strong liquor. This means that patriotism starts with an affection for the objects and scenery close to us in everyday life. This love forms an invisible but strong bond between people and their villages, homelands, and nations.

When separated from their homeland, this love intensifies within each individual. In the silent moments of a fierce and brutal battle, every Soviet soldier remembers the beautiful, graceful images of their homeland: People from the north recall the forests along the Vina River or the meadowlands where trees grow along the water's edge, recalling the nights of June with a soft red light and the sound of a young woman calling her lover. Similarly, someone from Ukraine may recall the shady linden trees by the roadside, the stillness of the midday summer sun...

People from Leningrad recall the vast, regal Neva River, which symbolizes Russia... People from Moscow reminisce about the old streets, winding and meandering like a memory, before reaching the grand boulevards of the new city. Further away are the Kremlin, the ancient towers, and the symbols of Russia's glory. Thus, the heart of every person from any part of the country, whether from the mountains or plains, the countryside or the city, holds cherished memories of the place where they were born and raised.

Author Ehrenburg presents a simple, specific concept of patriotism: A love for home, village, and the countryside grows into a love for the nation. This idea is simple and easy to understand because it is a universal truth, a law, just like streams flowing into rivers, rivers flowing into the mighty Volga, and the Volga flowing into the sea. Love for family and homeland expands and elevates to become love for the country.

Patriotism originates from love for everyday, familiar things, from love for family and homeland. However, patriotism can only reveal its full power in times of great trial, such as during the fierce, life-and-death struggle of the Great Patriotic War against the invading Nazis. In such circumstances, the life and fate of each individual become intertwined with the fate of the nation, and the writer's patriotism is shown with all its strength.

One cannot accept a vague, abstract patriotism. True patriotism must be accompanied by concrete thoughts and actions, expressed most clearly in the midst of war. Faced with the survival of the nation, every Russian citizen understands how great their love for the country is. They love their family, their nation, Russia, and the Soviet Union. Everyone feels that if Russia were lost, life itself would hold no meaning, for Russia has become an inseparable part of each person, as essential as blood and soul. During the Great Patriotic War against Nazi Germany, the Russian people loved their homeland so much that they loathed the invaders even more. They transformed this hatred into concrete actions. Every village and city in Russia became a fortress, and every citizen became a courageous, steadfast soldier.

True patriotism serves to distinguish between the Red Army soldier—who heroically defends the nation—and the German soldier—a vicious murderer and war criminal. The patriotism and unyielding spirit of the Red Army soldiers terrified and impressed the German soldiers.

The heroic sacrifice of five naval soldiers in the brutal defense of Sevastopol stands as a powerful testament to patriotism: They embraced each other, bid farewell, and tied grenades to themselves, rolling into enemy tanks. More than anyone, they loved life yet were willing to charge into death, offering their lives to preserve the nation's survival. They defeated death and became immortal because their noble sacrifice breathed new life into millions of others; it strengthened the soul of Russia, living on even in the most intense battles. It continues to live on today, among the flowers blooming in the countryside and in the most pure voices of a choir of young girls. The Soviet Union and its people will forever honor the heroes who saved the nation. Eternal glory belongs to them.

Patriotism is a sacred feeling, the source of all thoughts, actions, and creativity in every true person. Ilya Ehrenburg's passage not only praises patriotism and encourages the nation to rise against Nazi Germany to protect the homeland, but it also stands as an immortal anthem of patriotism—not only of the Russian people but of humanity as a whole.

The essay "Patriotism" is an excerpt from I. Ehrenburg's article "Trial by Fire". Spiritually, it resembles a rallying cry for the Russian army in the 1940s. It awakens the noblest emotions of people, hidden deep within them, and unites the people of the Soviet Union to face the heavy challenges of World War II against Nazi Germany (1941-1945).

Unlike Trần Quốc Tuấn's battle cry, which was aimed at a limited group (soldiers), Ehrenburg's appeal called upon the entire population. It also departs from the conventional moral ideals of the past, drawing on simple human emotions. The democratic and universal appeal is evident in this famous political essay.

The structure of the essay can be interpreted in different ways. One common interpretation divides it into two parts: the first, where love for the country stems from the familiar and personal; the second, where patriotism is expressed and tested through the struggle to defend the homeland. Another interpretation uses the event of war to trace two levels of love for the country. This essay follows the second interpretation.

1. At first, a person’s love for their country is like a small stream, not deep or vast. It is connected to the environment and nature, as "Fish swim in patriotism, birds sing to the sky" (a line from poet Tổ Hữu). These are natural instincts we often have—like a tree by the house, a street leading to the river, the sweet sour fragrance of a fall pear. These "most ordinary things" stir a tender melody of love for the homeland. Though vague and undefined, this is the initial stage of patriotism, the starting point.

2. The transformation in how this love is felt occurs in response to significant events, especially the looming dangers and challenges. The old folk song expresses a longing when a man is far from home: "I miss my homeland as I depart…". But the situation here is more serious: a war breaks out, and Russia’s fate hangs by a thread. It is in this harsh context that Russians began to see their homeland differently. A phrase that seems like a simple transition is actually a profound shift: "The war made each Soviet citizen recognize the beauty of their homeland". "War" is a pivotal moment, marking the people of Russia as "Soviet citizens", bearing a sacred responsibility.

To fully understand this, one must place the sentence in the historical context of Russia after a year of Nazi attacks, during a tactical retreat, as they prepared for a prolonged fight. One of the possibilities was that "Russia might no longer exist". In this scenario, the innocent love for the homeland quickly transforms into deep reflection. What was once certain might be lost, and the picturesque scenes that once seemed simple now take on profound significance. Nature’s beauty shines brightly in that moment, and the ordinary becomes extraordinary in the depth of emotion. The trees in the yard, the little street, the scent of the pear or the grass of the steppe would soon be replaced by the harsh smells of war and the bombs of the enemy. It is only in this context that the "beauty of the homeland" truly resonates.

The homeland of Russia, or even the entire Soviet Union, each region has its own beauty, but all share tranquility and peace. It is a land of poetry and music. There’s nothing more poetic than the June nights of the Far North or the timeless summer afternoons of Ukraine. To find true artistic expression, one must go to Georgia, where unexpected joys greet you: glowing rocks and shimmering silver streams, with wine served in leather bags as nomads have done for centuries.

In the historic city of Leningrad, grand statues of warriors on horseback stand tall, while Moscow’s Kremlin is like the beating heart of the country. The writer doesn’t seek to boast about this beauty. Instead of highlighting the splendor of industrial civilization, the writer praises nature with its many layers and ancient cultural heritage. The essay expresses personal feelings—an individual Soviet citizen’s emotions—broad in scope yet profound in depth. There is something both universal and personal in every piece of land, every region of Russia. Everything is part of Russia, part of the writer’s own being, which makes every sentence filled with longing and emotion.

3. The essay’s conclusion highlights the interconnectedness of love for the homeland: "The stream flows into the river, the river flows into the Volga, and the Volga reaches the sea". This is the natural flow of life, but also a rule for humanity: "Love for one’s home, village, and region becomes love for the motherland". It is not just a matter of quantity; the transformation from love to patriotism is like a storm: it does not happen naturally, but is born from the wind. A Vietnamese proverb says, "Those who sow the wind will reap the storm." Enemies who challenge Russia will come to understand the patriotism of the Russian people. On one hand, a person’s love can only be tested by war, the greatest trial. On the other hand, since "autumn of 1941", it has been self-evident: "What is the point of living if Russia ceases to exist?" This truth echoed through the sound of gunfire during the counteroffensive and lifted the flag of victory at the enemy’s stronghold.

4. The artistic merit of the essay lies in its tightly reasoned logic: Patriotism is inherent in every person. When war breaks out, this patriotism is awakened, and its immense strength is demonstrated. The first two points are based on reality (often unseen), while the third point is a consequence, a prediction that would soon be seen. These truths, though often taken for granted, are incomprehensible to enemies. This was proven not only in the Soviet Red Army’s victory but also in the resistance of the Vietnamese people against French and American imperialism.

In addition to the logical reasoning, there is a poetic and graceful style of writing. This style perfectly conveys the richness of the Russian soul. Ehrenburg’s writing seems to mine the depths of the human spirit and reveal an untapped power within the Russian people, turning it into a weapon that could overcome even the most horrific bombs and bullets of the enemy.

Illya Ehrenburg was a prominent writer and journalist of the former Soviet Union. His writing career was closely tied to a challenging and intense period of Soviet history: the fierce confrontation between the legitimate Soviet government and Hitler's fascists during the Great Patriotic War (1941-1945). During the most difficult moments in history, the patriotism of Soviet citizens was tested. As a journalist, Ehrenburg captured invaluable and sacred moments of the nation’s struggle. His notable works from this period include 'Test of Fire,' an outstanding composition.

'Test of Fire' is a very unique article. The journalistic and literary essence of Illya Ehrenburg combined in this piece, which serves as an essay-commentary. The essay 'Patriotism' (included in Literature 6, Volume II) is a section of this larger commentary. Despite its brevity, the piece leaves a deep and unforgettable impression on the reader. The essay skillfully balances sharp political commentary with poetic emotion, which makes the idea clear and compelling: Patriotism starts with the love for ordinary things... The love for home, neighborhood, and countryside transforms into love for the Motherland, making it an even more powerful argument.

The essay is divided into two main parts, each addressing a significant idea. In the first section, the author explores the origins of patriotism. To present this idea, Ehrenburg uses a tightly structured argument. He begins by stating a practical observation: patriotism begins with love for the most ordinary things—like a tree planted in front of the house, a little street leading to the river, the sour-sweet aroma of autumn fruit, or the strong fragrance of wild grass in the fields.

He then expands this idea by discussing love for one’s homeland in a specific context: War makes every Soviet citizen appreciate the beauty of their homeland. Finally, Ehrenburg draws a conclusion, comparing rivers to larger waterways: The small stream joins the river, the river joins the vast Volga, and the Volga flows into the sea. The love for the home, neighborhood, and village evolves into love for the Motherland. However, the essay's persuasive power lies not only in logic but also in the deep, heartfelt emotions and profound understanding Ehrenburg has about the Soviet Union. This emotional connection enabled him to recognize the 'delicate beauty' of each region of the country.

Ehrenburg’s delicate pen takes the reader across various regions of the vast Soviet Union, letting them witness the beauty of nature, savor local specialties, and feel simple yet profound emotions. Here is the North of the Soviet Union, with its forests along the river, trees growing along the water’s edge, the soft glow of a June night, and the sound of a girl teasing her lover. There’s Ukraine, peaceful with its sunflowers and warm summer afternoons. Then there’s Georgia, with its towering mountains and clear skies, radiant rocks, sparkling streams, the taste of cold water, strong wine, and the simplicity of heartfelt words.

How wonderful it is! And here, Leningrad, grand and dreamy, with bronze statues of galloping horses, summer park flowers, and streets where every house tells a story. And here, too, is ancient Moscow, with winding, narrow streets filled with nostalgia, the Kremlin, and the old towers glittering under a red star.

Ehrenburg’s descriptive style is profoundly poetic, showing his deep love and pride for his homeland. His portrayal of patriotism is both accurate and vivid. Even the concept of patriotism is conveyed through a striking metaphor: The stream flows into the river, the river flows into the vast Volga, and the Volga reaches the sea. The love for home, the village, and the countryside evolves into love for the Motherland.

After revealing the roots of patriotism, Ehrenburg shifts to emphasize that true patriotism can only be fully realized and honored when tested in the heat of war: How can we understand the full strength of love without subjecting it to the fierce trials of war? In the Great Patriotic War, each Soviet citizen realized their destiny was inseparable from the fate of their country. As a result, they were ready to leave their beloved homeland behind to fight for the Motherland.

The essay ends with a statement that became a guiding principle for Soviet citizens during that era: 'If we lose Russia, what is the point of living?' This maxim became a shared ideal across nations.