Stockholm: On December 15, in Sweden, the publishing house Lava released an English edition of "Baku 1501," a novel by renowned Azerbaijani writer Aziza Jafarzade. The author, a Doctor of Philological Sciences and a respected translator and professor, is known for her works emphasizing patriotic themes and historical heritage.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the translation and editorial preparation of the book were completed by Saadat Karimi, an Azerbaijani scholar residing in Sweden and Associate Professor at the University of Gothenburg. The initiative for the project came from the writer's son, Turan Ibrahim. The cover design was crafted by artist Fuad Tahir Manafov, known for his pieces dedicated to the historical essence of Baku.
"Baku 1501" delves into the early 16th century, illustrating a pivotal era in Azerbaijani history marked by wars, religious conflicts, and the rise of the Safavid dynasty. The novel brings to life the campaigns of the Qizilbash army and the multifaceted figure of Shah Ismail Khatai, the first Safavid ruler. The book offers European readers insight into a crucial chapter of Azerbaijan's history and showcases the artistic legacy of Aziza Jafarzade.
As part of the book's introduction to international audiences, Lava publishing house plans to host an official presentation in January. The publication has already stirred interest among a diverse readership, eager to explore the historical and cultural narratives woven into Jafarzade's work.
Turan Ibrahim expressed his joy over the English publication, praising Saadat Karimi for her dedication to promoting Aziza Jafarzade's literary contributions. He recalled Karimi's commitment to translating "Baku 1501," a project she envisioned during a visit to the Aziza Jafarzade house-museum in Baku.
The novel "Baku 1501" has a rich publication history, having been first released in 1981 with a print run of 40,000 copies. It has since been published in multiple languages, including Azerbaijani, Russian, and Uzbek, and is anticipated to reach new audiences through this English edition.
Saadat Karimi emphasized her effort to maintain the original terms used by Jafarzade and the poets featured in the novel, providing explanations for European readers. She expressed confidence that the novel's language, style, and national content would captivate the new audience.
Fuad Tahir Manafov discussed the importance of book design in conveying the novel's themes. He described his cover artwork, which reflects the historical and cultural depth of "Baku 1501," as essential in forming readers' first impressions of the book.
The English edition of "Baku 1501" represents a significant step in introducing Aziza Jafarzade's literary achievements to a global audience, offering a window into Azerbaijan's rich cultural and historical tapestry.