Letters to the Editor

To the Editors:

The election of Vladimir Putin to the Presidency made me curious—about the name, I mean. Does it have certain meaning in the language? I refer to Rasputin.
Sincerely,Harry C. Schulte
Kirkwood, MO

Mr. Schulte:
Etymology of some Russian names can be somewhat speculative. But it is our understanding that the name “Putin” derives from the Russian word “put,” for “path” or “way.” In contrast, the name “Rasputin” derives from the Russian word “rasput’e,” meaning a crossroads.
— The Editors

CORRECTIONS: In our article on our Third Annual Russian Life Vodka Taste Off, (Russian Life, Sept/Oct 2000), we neglected to mention a highlight of the evening’s events. Several graduate and advanced students of Russian from Middlebury College’s esteemed Summer Russian School regaled those attending with poetic recitations in Russian. It added a wonderful “flavor” to the event.

Second, In the July/August issue of Russian Life, in our lead story on the resurrection of Christ the Savior Cathedral, we made a serious gaffe. On several occasions, we referred to different “masses” held at the Cathedral. These were unfortunate errors in translation. Of course, the Orthodox Church does not celebrate masses, but liturgies. We apologize for the error.
— The Editors