Nika Turbina Poetess Date of Birth: 17.12.1974 Country: Russia

Biography of Nika Turbina

Nika Turbina was a Russian poetess who tragically passed away at a young age. Born on December 1, 1974, in Moscow, Nika entered the world of poetry at a very young age. At the tender age of nine, she published her first book of poetry titled "Chernovik" (Rough Draft). Despite her young age and limited literary experience, the book gained recognition and was published by "Molodaya Gvardiya" publishing house on December 11, 1984.

Nika's journey as a poetess began as a means of coping with her severe bronchial asthma as a child. Unable to sleep at night due to asthma attacks, she would write verses to fill the empty voids of the night. This became her form of protection against the fear of death and pain. Nika would dictate her poems to her mother, who carefully recorded them in a notebook.

Her talent was noticed by renowned poet Evgeny Evtushenko, who introduced her to the literary world. Nika quickly gained popularity in the Soviet Union, with her name becoming widely recognized. She captivated audiences with her delicate childlike voice and performed alongside established poets. Her performances filled concert halls, and she became known for her poignant and vulnerable poetry.

Despite her success, Nika's life took a tragic turn. She struggled with personal demons and faced challenges in her personal relationships. At the age of sixteen, she married a 76-year-old Italian psychology professor. The marriage ended quickly, and Nika returned to Moscow, where she faced the difficulties of the post-Soviet era. She continued writing poetry but struggled to find recognition in a changing society.

Nika's life took a darker turn, and she battled with mental health issues. She made several suicide attempts, including jumping from a fifth-floor balcony. Although she survived, she was left permanently disabled and unable to walk. Nika lived a secluded life in her small Moscow apartment, accompanied only by her pets.

In her final years, Nika's talent was largely forgotten, and she struggled to find love and support. She felt abandoned by those who once praised her. On May 27, 2002, Nika tragically took her own life, feeling that she had lived enough. Her body remained unidentified in the morgue until recognized by her former teacher, Alena Galich. Nika's remains were cremated.

Today, Nika Turbina's legacy lives on through her poetry and the impact she had on the Russian literary scene. Her unique voice and vulnerable expressions continue to inspire readers and remind us of the struggles faced by artists. Though her life was cut short, Nika Turbina left an indelible mark on the world of poetry.