31
“Sayohatnoma” and the travelogue genre
Textbook: pp. 175–179
GoalKnow the structure of the travelogue genre and the features of Muqimiy’s travelogues.
New words
travelogue · sayohatnomaintroduction · kirishconclusion · xulosacriticism · tanqid
Explanation
A travelogue (sayohatnoma) is a prose or poetic work that reflects travel memories and related details. Muqimiy’s travelogues are usually written in poetic quatrains. They have a three-part structure: an introduction – the reasons for setting out; the road memories – pictures of places and people; and conclusions. Muqimiy wrote about journeys from Kokand to Shohimardon, to Fergana and to Isfara. The poet sharply criticises unpleasant places and people, while he describes the beautiful gardens and waters of Fergana with delight. After Muqimiy, poets such as Zavqiy, Furqat and Tajalliy also wrote travelogues.
Worked examples
Example: the travelogue “From Kokand to Shohimardon” – road details, scenes and conclusion in three parts.
Example: a modern travelogue can be written by a travelling journalist – the genre is still alive.
Class activity
Mini-travelogue: 6 lines about your way from home to school: introduction, road, conclusion.
Practice
1
What is a travelogue?
A work reflecting travel memories and details.
2
What are the three parts of a travelogue?
Introduction, road memories, conclusion.
3
Which three journeys did Muqimiy write about?
To Shohimardon, Fergana and Isfara.
4
Why is the travelogue a useful genre?
It preserves the life of places and people like a document and allows critical thought.