Nadezhda Volpin’s Manuscript with Sergei Yesenin’s “Confession of a Hooligan” Fragments

Rarity and Value
This extraordinary manuscript comprises four handwritten pages, penned by the poetess Nadezhda Volpin—civil partner of Sergei Yesenin and mother of his son, Alexander Esenin-Volpin. Featuring fragments from Yesenin’s evocative poem “Confession of a Hooligan”, this artifact stands at the crossroads of literature and personal history. As Volpin personally transcribed these verses in her own hand, the manuscript serves as a rare relic of poetic genius and intimate connection. It represents a profound fusion of love, literary heritage, and human legacy, making it an unparalleled artifact for connoisseurs of Russian literary history.

Discovery and Acquisition
Nadezhda Volpin, an accomplished poetess in her own right, was closely tied to Sergei Yesenin during the final years of his life. Their relationship, though unconventional, was marked by deep personal and creative bonds. She gave birth to their son, Alexander, who would later become a prominent poet and mathematician. This manuscript, written in Volpin’s hand, is a testament to her role not only as Yesenin’s companion but also as a guardian of his poetic legacy. While there is limited public documentation regarding Volpin’s transcription of “Confession of a Hooligan”, this manuscript stands as compelling evidence of her devotion to preserving his work. Its historical and literary significance renders it an invaluable acquisition for collectors of rare manuscripts and Russian poetry.

Craftsmanship and Presentation
The manuscript is carefully preserved within a sleek, museum-grade black frame, ensuring both protection and an elegant display. The aged pages exhibit signs of time’s passage, with gentle creases and a natural patina that enhance its authenticity. The ink remains vivid, offering a direct, tangible connection to Yesenin’s poetry and Volpin’s meticulous hand. Each page reflects the raw energy of Yesenin’s lyrical style, faithfully transcribed by someone who knew him intimately, with personal annotations that hint at the emotional depth behind his iconic verses.

Human Touch
More than a mere document, this manuscript bridges two intertwined lives—Yesenin, the fiery poet of Russia’s soul, and Volpin, the devoted poetess who bore his child and safeguarded his poetic legacy. Each line is imbued with their shared history, offering an irreplaceable glimpse into the intimate world of one of Russia’s most revered literary figures. This artifact stands as a testament to the enduring power of love, art, and poetry—a truly mesmerizing piece for those who seek to own a fragment of literary eternity.