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Nikolay KazakovMari Soviet poet, prose writer, translator, journalist, editor
Date of Birth: 15.01.1918
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Content:
Early Life and Education
Nikolai Kazakov was born on January 15, 1918, in the village of Kutuk-Kiner, present-day Mari El Republic, to a peasant family. He began his primary education in his village in 1926, later attending a 7-year school in Kozhl haer and an incomplete 10-year school in Arina.
From 1934 to 1936, Kazakov worked as a literary employee for the pioneer newspaper "Yamde liy" ("Be Prepared!"). In 1936-1937, he studied at preparatory courses at the Mari Teacher's Institute, graduating from the literary faculty in 1939.
Literary and Military Career
In 1939-1940, Kazakov headed the literary and artistic department of Margoshidat (later the Mari Book Publishing House). From February 1940 to February 1946, he served in the Red Army as a lieutenant, participating in the defense of Moscow. After being wounded, he worked in reserve units preparing reinforcements for active armies.
Post-War Activities
Kazakov returned to Yoshkar-Ola in 1946 and became involved in public and literary activities. He served as the editor of the journal "Mari almanakh" (1946-1948) and the responsible secretary of the Union of Writers of the Mari ASSR (1948-1950).
In 1955, Kazakov graduated from the Maxim Gorky Moscow Literary Institute. He later worked as an editor of fiction at the Mari Book Publishing House, head of the culture department of the republican newspaper "Mari Kommuna," and literary consultant for the Union of Writers of the Mari ASSR.
Literary Works
Kazakov began writing poetry in his school years, with his first poem, "Lenin," published in 1933. He published his first collection of poems, "Poems," in 1938, followed by "Brave Komsomol" and "Living Joyfully." His poetry explored the transformative power of the Soviet experience and the rise of a new society.
During the Great Patriotic War, Kazakov published the collections "In the Fire" and "A Holiday on Our Street," as well as numerous publicistic articles and reviews. His war poetry captured the heroic spirit of the time while maintaining its poetic freshness and emotional depth.
In 1950, the collection "Poetry - Beloved Companion" earned Kazakov the coveted Stalin Prize of the Third Degree, making him the first and only Mari writer to receive such an honor. In the postwar years, he expanded his literary horizons, writing short stories, memoirs, and polemical articles.
Kazakov also translated extensively, bringing the works of Robert Burns, Alexander Pushkin, Mikhail Lermontov, and others into the Mari language. His own works were translated into many languages and published around the world.
Legacy
Nikolai Kazakov passed away on February 12, 1989, leaving behind a legacy as a renowned Mari poet, prose writer, translator, journalist, and editor. He was a pioneer in Mari literature and played a pivotal role in shaping its modern identity. His works continue to inspire and challenge readers, fostering a deep appreciation for the Mari language and culture.
