ON THE DELICATE PHYSICS OF POETRY

In ancient Greek, the word "poetry" means "creativity, creation." Since time immemorial, people have tirelessly engaged in poetry, using it to express their attitudes toward the world and themselves. Let us recall Homer and Sophocles. Let us remember Sappho, who left her mark on world culture as a poetess of unique talent. This was the second century AD! And in the early 19th century, the German philosopher Kant stated in one of his works that "of all the arts, poetry holds the first place."

Today, in the 21st century, poetry continues to maintain its prominence as a literary art form, drawing both men and women into the realm of creative expression. This transcends age, language, and religion. But how does an individual become drawn to the art of poetry? When does the urge to pour out emotions and feelings into rhymed verse first emerge? We spoke with young Azerbaijani poetess Lala GASANOVA, whose poetry evening was held at Moscow's Rudomino Foreign Literature Library with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation's Representative Office in Russia and the Azerbaijan Cultural Centre.

"At what age did you write your first poem?"

"At 16."

"What was the occasion? Unrequited love?"

"No, it was the betrayal of my friends. I could only entrust this profound heartache to words, which, as if by themselves, took the form of rhymed lines. It was not a conscious decision. No, it was an organic necessity of the soul that led me to poetry. Interestingly, no one in my family had ever written poetry before. I am the first."

"Perhaps this marks the beginning of a new literary tradition in your family?"

"Anything is possible..."

"Do you have any favourite poets whose work captivates you?"

"Yes. Sergei Yesenin and Omar Khayyam. I admire Yesenin for the delicate elegance of his poetic lines and Khayyam for his profound philosophical insight."

"And among female poets?"

"The works of Khurshidbanu Natavan and Mehseti Ganjavi."

"What about contemporary poets?"

"Our poet Sahib Mammadov."

"What draws you to his poetry?"

"His poems do more than captivate; they touch the soul. It’s not just about the grace of the poetic line but also the depth of emotions, thoughts, and experiences. When I read his work, I feel as if every word he writes is my own."

"In today's era of overwhelming technological advancement, how popular is poetry among your peers?"

"Very popular! I believe that for those who possess a soul and the capacity to experience the full spectrum of human emotions—joy, sorrow, disappointment, love, hatred—poetry will always remain essential as one of the most profound means of emotional and spiritual self-expression."

"In other words?"

"In other words, poetry is not only a means of interaction between an individual and society, as well as with nature, but also with oneself. I believe that the poetic word not only purifies a person morally but also helps them endure and overcome many difficulties."

"What leads you to this conclusion?"

"From practical experience in engaging with aspiring poets. Many of the poems they write contain deep reflections on the challenges of modern society. The ability to articulate these experiences in verse not only provides relief from troubling thoughts but also helps rid the mind of overwhelming negative emotions."

"How so?"

"Poetry is not merely a collection of words with meaning. A poem is an outpouring of emotion—both positive and negative."

"So, for you personally, poetry is...?"

"...everything that constitutes our lives and our very being. At least for those who have a soul and the capacity for empathy, compassion, and deep emotional connection. I would go even further—poetry is not only a powerful stimulus for creative self-development but also a means of self-preservation and moral survival in an often harsh and aggressive world."

"How do poems come to you? Do they appear in your dreams as poetic images? Or do they take shape in your mind as words seeking expression?"

"Roughly speaking, the process follows this sequence: emotion—feeling—word. But that is just the beginning. Behind it lies the work of the heart, mind, and soul. This is why writing poetry is a continuous process of study and self-improvement, including the art of living in the here and now. That is what I am learning."

"By the way! Are you a philologist by training?"

"No, I am a physicist."

"How so?"

"Yes! In 2019, I earned my bachelor's degree from Baku State University, specialising as a physics teacher. In 2022, I completed my master’s degree with distinction in the Faculty of Methods and Methodology of Teaching Physics in Schools, specialising as a methodologist."

"That’s fascinating! Are there any other unexpected aspects of your life?"

"I’m not sure what exactly you mean, but if you’re interested, I can tell you that I have 11 years of musical education in piano. I graduated from the Afrasiyab Badalbeyli Music School No. 23. Since 2023, I have also been a member of the Writers' Union."

"That’s incredible! And all this by the age of 28?! As I understand, you have also founded a literary project called 'Modern Poets of Azerbaijan.'"

"Yes, it is a kind of literary club dedicated to poetry. The project was established in 2022 on a voluntary basis to support creative individuals who write in Russian and Azerbaijani. It provides a platform for young and talented poets eager to express themselves and share their work with the world."

"Well, the journey belongs to those who take the first step. Wishing you success in all your creative endeavours!"

"Thank you!"