Embodiment of the spirit of returning to western Azerbaijan in poetry: the formula of memory, homeland, displacement

Abstract

The importance of poetry and literature in articulating the collective memory and cultural identity of marginalized communities cannot be overstated, particularly in the context of historical trauma and displacement. The rich literary heritage of Azerbaijan is a key element for understanding the experience of these communities. Despite this valuable literary tradition, there exists a research gap regarding the specific ways in which Western Azerbaijani poets address themes of migration, homesickness, and the impact of imperial ideologies on their cultural narratives. Thus, this study aims to fill this gap by examining the artistic expressions of poets from Western Azerbaijan and how their works reflect the struggles and resilience of their communities in the face of historical adversities. The key findings reveal that these poets employ a variety of linguistic resources, such as imagery and metaphor, to convey the emotional weight of displacement and the longing for homeland. Furthermore, the research highlights the role of poetry as a means of preserving cultural memory and fostering a sense of national identity among future generations. The implications of this study underscore the necessity of recognizing and supporting the literary contributions of marginalized voices, as they play a crucial role in shaping societal understanding of historical injustices and cultural continuity.