Jumeken Najimedenov
The Kazakhs Can't Resist a Küi’s Call
Jumeken Najimedenov/Qalam
Due to its educational aspirations, Qalam strives to explain the world - hence, every historical or cultural phenomenon considered here is accompanied by a wealth of additional information. However, in this section, we have decided to do without unnecessary words and familiar comments. Before you are fragments of verses collected from different eras and parts of the world, which seem to speak for themselves and are notably beautiful to us. As one modern lyricist expressed on a similar occasion, if it's without explanations; it's probably to do with something in one's blood.
The Kazakhs can't resist a küi’s call,
Forgetting prayers, they heed its enthrall.
With elders and youth, the house fills with sound,
Maidens sigh through cracks, their hearts unbound.
The musician's tunes warm souls to their core,
And joy takes flight as spirits soar.
Dawn's first light, a maiden graces the yard
Adorning the horse that delivered the bard.
Melodies soar, wild and free,
Echoing glee in hearts' symphony.
At fifteen, with love ablaze,
She flees with the musician, fate's tender maze.
Like a river swift, their destiny flows,
Love's fiery tide, where passion grows.
The musician's arrival, a feast to share,
His departure, sorrow, hearts filled with despairi
A küi (pronounced /kwee/) is a traditional instrumental composition in Central Asian, and particularly Kazakh, music. It is often played on traditional instruments like the dombra or the kobyz. Küis can vary in style and purpose, with some being lively and written for dance, while others are more contemplative and melodic. These compositions are an important part of the cultural heritage of Kazakhstan and are used to express a wide range of emotions and themes, including nature, love, and national pride.
Jumeken Najimedenov (1935–83) was a famous Kazakh poet who wrote the lyrics for the current national anthem of Kazakhstan. His works have left a lasting impact on Kazakh literature and culture.
