Rafik Yunusovich Yunusov,
“Kazan Utlary” (“The Lights of Kazan”) editorial board,
1 Dekabristov Str., Kazan, 420000, Russia,
kazanutlari@telebit.ru.
The article systematizes the history of formation and functioning of the oldest Tatar literary journal “Kazan Utlary”. This is one of the relics (in a good sense) of the Soviet era. This monthly journal persistently maintains the level of quality in the era when everything changes beyond recognition. The journal has kept its name remaining faithful to its traditions. “Kazan Utlary” is a modern journal, a very recognizable landmark in the world of Tatar literature. The hallmark of this thick journal is its careful selection of material. Many works, first published in the journal, were later released as separate editions, nominated for various literary awards. They became finalists and winners of the State Prize of the Republic of Tatarstan named after G.Tukay, the State Prize of Russia named after M.Gorky, the literary prize of the Union of Writers of the Republic of Tatarstan and others. For a long time, the trend of the journal was determined by literary criticism. The older generation of critics whose self-determination was strongly influenced by ideological intentions quit their literary life. Young critics are working under quite different socio-cultural circumstances, never expressing “a group’s” opinion, being of a self-absorbed type focused on their own selves.
In modern sociocultural situation, the journal seeks to adequately respond to the challenges of the time. “Kazan Utlary” publishes works of art and strictly documentary evidence, dedicated to bright and dramatic fates of people, significant historical events as well as unique archival discoveries. The journal presents modern prose and poetic selections by famous masters of literature and those who are on the way to fame. “Kazan Utlary” is a platform for discussing key issues related to national history and culture of the Tatar people. Russia changes, authors change, so do the staff and the readers. One thing remains constant: the journal “Kazan Utlary” is still an organic, living part of Tatar culture.
Key words: history of Tatar journalism, Tatar literature, journal “Kazan Utlary”, national content, sections, anniversary.