Ashgabat — In a recent lecture at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, scholar Derya Soysal paid tribute to the enduring legacy of Magtymguly Pyragy, the revered Turkmen poet and thinker. Her address emphasized the profound influence Pyragy has had on literature, philosophy, and national identity, both within Turkmenistan and across the world.
Soysal described Magtymguly Pyragy as a “great Turkmen thinker and poet whose name reigns in the world of poetry through the power and miracle of words.” She noted that Pyragy’s works have transcended linguistic and cultural boundaries, with translations into numerous languages. The earliest known Western translation was made by Wambery in 1879, a milestone that sparked significant interest in Western Europe.
During her lecture, Soysal read Pyragy’s poem Aýrylma (“Do Not Leave”) and explained its central role in shaping Turkmen patriotism. “In this poem, Pyragy urges Turkmens never to abandon their homeland under any circumstances,” she said, highlighting the poet’s deep commitment to national identity and unity.
She also outlined the core themes of Pyragy’s poetry, which include:
- Courage and Patriotism
- Purity of Spirit
- Love of Nature
- Mercy, Respect, and Kindness
- Wisdom and Humanism
Soysal further emphasized Pyragy’s significance as a cultural and spiritual figure in Central Asia. “He was not only a philosophical poet and spiritual leader but also a pioneer in Turkic literature,” she said. Pyragy was among the first poets to use classical Chagatai—the court language of Central Asian Khans—as a literary medium, helping to elevate it to a language of poetry and thought.
Recognizing his lasting impact, the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY) has declared 2024 the Year of Magtymguly Pyragy, commemorating his contributions to the Turkic world.
Soysal concluded her lecture by quoting Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, who praised the poet’s timeless relevance:
“Magtymguly Pyragy, the great thinker and sage of the East, has taken an eternal place in the hearts of people with his deep, wise verses. Pyragy’s works, promoting humanism, honesty, and unity, are invaluable values for all mankind. The creativity of Magtymguly Pyragy, the great master of words, is a valuable spiritual and moral school for all times.”