Language/Turkmen/Culture/Famous-Turkmen-Writers
In this lesson, we will learn about some of the most famous Turkmen writers and poets who have had a significant impact on Turkmen literature and culture. Some of these literary figures include Magtymguly Pyragy and Berdi Kerbabayev. These writers are renowned for their work in poetry, prose, and drama, and their works have been influential both in Turkmenistan and abroad. Throughout this lesson, we will explore the lives and works of these famous Turkmen writers, and we will also discuss how their work reflects Turkmen culture and heritage. So, let's dive in and get to know these remarkable individuals!
Magtymguly Pyragy
Magtymguly Pyragy (1733-1807) is unquestionably one of the most celebrated Turkmen poets and thinkers. Born in the Gokleng region in present-day Iran, Pyragy was a prolific writer who contributed greatly to the development of Turkmen literature. His work predominantly centers around themes of love, humanity, equality, and spirituality. As a philosopher and intellectual, Pyragy's writings also touch upon social and political issues, often advocating for justice, unity, and progress.
Magtymguly Pyragy is best known for his ghazals, a form of poetry composed of rhyming couplets and a refrain. Pyragy's ghazals, which are still very popular today, have become a crucial part of Turkmen cultural heritage. In recognition of his significant contributions to Turkmen literature, Pyragy's portrait is featured on the national currency, and his birthday (May 18) is celebrated as a public holiday in Turkmenistan.
Examples of Magtymguly Pyragy's poetry:
| Turkmen | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Bir ýaş pulym gadayan çyra // Jomartlaşyplar meni dünýäde | Bir yash pulym gadayan chira // Jomartlashyplar meni dunyade | My wealth in this world is spent // As selflessly as a spent candle |
| Allar hagly hökmanyýær // Mäkde giç gelmedik millete | Allar hagly hokmanyarer // Makde gich gelmedik millete | All people are under God's fair rule // None will escape justice in the end |
Berdi Kerbabayev
Berdi Kerbabayev (1894-1974) was another well-known Turkmen writer, whose work spans various genres, including novels, dramas, and poetry. Born in Tashauz (now known as Dashoguz), Kerbabayev initially pursued a career in education before dedicating himself to literature. His writings often focus on the struggles and aspirations of the Turkmen people during both the pre-Soviet era and the early years of the Soviet regime.
One of Kerbabayev's most famous works is the novel "Batyr Söýüşi" (The Battle of Batyr), which tells the story of a brave young man named Batyr who fights against the forces of oppression and tyranny in 19th-century Turkmenistan. The novel, which was first published in 1930, is considered a classic in Turkmen literature and continues to be studied and appreciated by readers today.
Examples from Berdi Kerbabayev's "Batyr Söýüşi":
| Turkmen | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Uşaklaryň başyna top ýazagasy, // Batyr söýüşlerini ädim ädim biler. | Ushaklaryn bashyna top yazagasy, // Batyr soýushlerini adim adim biler. | When the children play their games, // They learn of Batyr's battles step by step. |
| Şol aladaň täsini almak üçin // Batyr öz ömriňde onlar çäre geçdi. | Shol aladang tasini almak uchin // Batyr oz omrinde onlar chare gechdi. | In order to get that scarlet stone // Batyr had to overcome many challenges in his life. |
Conclusion
In this lesson, we learned about two of the most famous Turkmen writers, Magtymguly Pyragy and Berdi Kerbabayev. Their works are an essential part of Turkmen literature and culture, and through their poetry, prose, and drama, they have shared their insights on love, humanity, justice, and the Turkmen way of life. As you continue your journey learning Turkmen, be sure to explore the rich literary tradition of Turkmenistan and the works of these great writers.
Related Lessons
- Regions of Turkmenistan
- Turkmen Holidays
- Famous Landmarks
- Turkmenistan Timeline
- Traditional Art Forms
- Greetings and Etiquette
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