- Հայ
- Рус
- Eng
The presentation of the English-language edition of “Selected Poems” – a book by prominent writer Vahan Tekeyan - took place at Armenian State Pedagogical University on November 19. Participating in the event was also Edmond Azadian, the editor of the book.
“A translated poem is like smelling a rose behind the glass: you have to break the glass to feel its scent and familiarize lovers of Armenian literature with the writer's literary legacy,” the editor said assuring everyone that the writings were translated into English maintaining their original features.
Edmond Azadian also highlighted the skills and experience of Gerald Papasian [as a translator] and considered the book to be the product of collective work and endeavours.
“Today we have such a generation that has the ability and will to perceive, use and burnish the language. It is the responsibility of each and every Armenian to place our literary greats on a pedestal,” said the editor. At the same time he expressed confidence that the book will become part of world literature, comparing and harmonizing Vahan Tekeyan with his contemporaries.
Edmond Azadian also assured the attendees that over time Vahan Tekeyan will become ‘a lighthouse that spreads light on spirits’ thanks to the growing interest in his writings and the number of publications.
The presentation was attended by literary critics, lecturers and students, as well as Bishop Bagrat Galstanyan who conveyed the blessing and appreciation of His Holiness Karekin II to Mr Azadian, stressing that he had always made his significant contribution to the common goal with his renewed energy and vigor.
“We are a small nation but with all our investments and toil we can keep pace with the great people of the world. This book is a major supplement to the treasury of world literature,” said Bishop Bagrat Galstanyan.
Tigran Mikaelyan, Dean of the Faculty of Foreign Languages, ASPU, Ayelita Dolukhanyan, Head of the Department of Ancient and Medieval Armenian Literature and its Teaching Method, and Suren Danielyan, Head of the Department of Modern and Contemporary Armenian Literature, also said words of appreciation on the occasion of the publication of the book that contains 23 poems.
They highlighted the publication of the book, saying it will not only serve readers of American and English literature but will also be read by lovers of Armenian literature, as well as become a textbook for university students.
Professor Ayelita Dolukhanyan, who is also a corresponding member of the National Academy of Sciences, particularly focused on the poem “Armenian Church,” and said it should be included in the school curriculum in order to show the role that the Church played in the preservation of Armenian people.
She agreed with the opinion of Edmond Azadian who said Tekeyan is a unique writer who spoke to God about human grief and pains, dreaming that man will return to paradise without trampling shrubs and flowers.
Professor Suren Danielyan also hailed Azadian’s contribution to the Armenian literature, saying the translation paves the way for broader international recognition of the great writer.
Tigran Mikaelyan, Dean of the Faculty of Foreign Languages, also highlighted the publication of the book especially for students studying foreign languages. He said until recently students thought that Tekeyan is a ‘banned’ writer. Mr Mikaelyan stressed that Tekeyan perfectly portrayed Western culture in his works.
