Author and Identity concepts in the novels of Q. Zhienbay

Abstract

The article looks into the author and identity concepts in the novels of Quanysh Zhienbay - a well-known writer, and laureate of the literature award “Alash.” His contemporary books («Даңқ түрмесінің тұтқыны», «Əн салуға əлі ерте», «Жер үстінде де жұмақ бар») are a series of novels that are interconnected in that they represent common themes, settings and seasons of the year. The author’s objectives in his novels include the ecological issue of the Aral Sea, the environmental detriments of the Baikonur Cosmodrome, and the poor conditions of Töretam Station. Although the characters of the novel are specialized in different spheres, they come to be closely related to each other by their common residence and native land. The author contrasts the past and future of this place through the lens of this special attitude of its citizens toward their native land. The places that are investigated in the novel unite a number of contrasting sights of the area. Whereas the Aral Sea is seen as an ecologically damaged area, Baikonur is a world spaceport, and Qorqyt Ata Mausoleum is a sacred place of the Turkic world. The author effectively illustrates this contrast through his literary works. The characters of the novel eagerly seek the origins of special values and national spirit through philosophical contemplation and restless rigor. They, as characters, are the direct by-products of an author’s concept. Furthermore, the complexity of human relationship could find its reflection in the novel. The novels of the author are considered one of the most successful literary works of Qazaq prose.