The work of the modern Russian poet Irina Verbitskaya includes civil, philosophical and love lyrics. The collection of lyrical poems “Chiaroscuro” is presented in two parts: I. IriNika and II. Sancta sanctorum. In the first part we read poems from such cycles as Requiem, Isabella, “Isida” and others, which express the poet’s love for the Motherland, philosophical reflections on the meaning of life, the sublimely beautiful, earthly love, sadness and joy. The poet glorifies the sky and the parachute brotherhood in his poems. In the second part, the Innermost is revealed with utmost sincerity in cycles of love lyrics, such as “Shell Spiral”, “Alter Ego”. Continuation of the cycles of love lyrics in the next book by the author “Metamorphoses”. This collection is intended for readers over 18 years of age, although civil lyrics are intended for Russians of all ages.