
“Armenian grief is a sea…
In that dark expanse drifts my soul…
In the sea of Armenian sorrows—
My soul languishes evermore.”
Hovhaness Tumanyan, 1903
Armenian poet and writer (1869-1923)

“Armenian grief is a sea…
In that dark expanse drifts my soul…
In the sea of Armenian sorrows—
My soul languishes evermore.”
Hovhaness Tumanyan, 1903
Armenian poet and writer (1869-1923)
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Knarik, 73 years ago, you and Anusch may have been considered ‘star-crossed playmates’, but as fate would have it, you were blessed to beat the odds, and be reunited in 2023!
Your story is extraordinary in so many different ways. The simplicity, honesty, and directness, in which you tell it, in both words, and photos, is informative, insightful, and inspiring. You remind us that despite the horrific challenges faced by the Armenian DPs, the majority of them moved forward with their lives, and with determination, commitment, hard work, and personal sacrifice, were able to honor and preserve their Armenian identity, a tribute to their Armenian spirit! Thank you for your powerful story!
Dear Mrs. Barsamian, Would you happen to be a former teacher at James Monroe Elementary in Chicago? If so, I’d like to thank you. I often think of my teachers with gratitude, and (if you are in fact the Mrs. Barsamian I remember so fondly) you stand head and shoulders above the rest. I’d like to express how your teaching helped open up the world to a young me. Thank you very much.
Phyllis Cohen
(You’re welcome to contact me if you wish. My email is my full name at gmail)
Wonderful article and a dream came true. Life is short and enjoy it with family and friends.
Thank you for sharing, keep writing!
Thank you, Knarik, for preserving a slice of history that many know so little about. Your story was sensitively told and very moving and now it is part of our collective history. Gratitude.
Wonderful memories, I knew Knarik and her brother Haik was good friend of mine.