Tengrinews.kz - Today, October 15, marks the 130th anniversary of the birth of the prominent Kazakh poet, writer, and statesman Saken (Saduakas) Seifullin. His life was filled with events, struggles, and achievements, and his work has left an indelible mark on Kazakh culture and literature.
Biography of Saken Seifullin
Saken Seifullin was born in 1894 in the Akmolinsk region to a peasant family. From a young age, he was immersed in the folk culture, listening to his father’s musical performances and his mother’s stories, fostering his love for literature and art. Early in life, he began writing poetry, drawing inspiration from the vast steppes and the life around him.
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Seifullin received his education at a Russian-Kazakh school, then at the Akmolinsk School and the Omsk Teachers' Seminary, where he met significant cultural figures, including Magzhan Zhumabayev. At the seminary, Seifullin became actively involved in the cultural and educational life, becoming one of the leaders of the "Bіrlіk" ("Unity") society, which aimed to spread culture and knowledge among Kazakh youth.
His interest in revolutionary ideas emerged early on, which influenced his creative and public activities. He supported the February Revolution of 1917, as reflected in his poem "Asygyp tez attandyk" ("We hurriedly set out"). During the Civil War, Seifullin was deeply involved in revolutionary activities, which led to his arrest by White Guards in 1918. He was held in the "death wagon" for 47 difficult days before escaping.
After the Soviet victory, Seifullin returned to active political and cultural work. He became one of the founders of Kazakh Soviet literature and continued to hold key positions in the Kazakh ASSR, engaging in education, literary criticism, and journalism. His work during this period was rich with patriotism and themes of revolutionary struggle, with notable works such as the novel Thorny Path, the poetry collection Asau Tulpar ("The Untamed Steed"), and the epic poems Kyzyl-At and Kokshe-Tau.
Despite his loyalty to the revolution, Seifullin became a victim of Stalin's repressions. In 1938, he was arrested and executed on charges of "bourgeois nationalism." He was posthumously rehabilitated in 1958.
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Quotes by Saken Seifullin
Saken Seifullin's work spanned various genres, including poetry, prose, drama, and journalism. He became a literary innovator by blending Kazakh oral traditions with new themes and forms. His writings are infused with love for his people, his homeland, and a desire for social justice.
Here are some of Seifullin's most memorable quotes:
"Oh, cursed wealth! You turn human hearts to stone!" – Here, Seifullin condemns greed, which he believed made people heartless.
"A person who has lived through hardships fears that newfound happiness will be short-lived." – The poet often reflected on the fleeting nature of human happiness and success.
"Time is a cruel thing! Man is your plaything, and his beauty is but a cheap toy!" – In these lines, Seifullin describes the relentless passage of time that eventually destroys everything of value.
"It is true what they say – what the ear hears, the eye does not see." – This quote expresses the profound difference between perception and knowledge.
"If you are brave, arm yourself with courage. If not, continue as you are – submit." – This quote reflects Seifullin’s belief that bravery and determination are necessary for success and overcoming challenges.
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Influence and Legacy
Saken Seifullin made a significant contribution to Kazakh culture and literature. His innovations in poetry and prose, along with his public service and patriotism, influenced an entire generation of Kazakh writers. He was the first Kazakh writer to be awarded the Order of the Red Banner of Labor, recognizing his contributions to cultural and public development.
Today, his works are studied in schools and universities, and streets in various Kazakh cities bear his name. Through his work, Kazakhs continue to remember their roots, history, and heroes.
The legacy of Saken Seifullin lives on. His poetry, full of courage, deep thoughts, and patriotism, continues to inspire new generations of Kazakhs.
