The Genesis of The Images of Creatures In The Lyrics of Alisher Navoi

Abstract

The use of symbolic imagery in classical Turkic literature plays a pivotal role in conveying spiritual, emotional, and philosophical dimensions. Within this tradition, the lyrical poetry of Alisher Navoi demonstrates a profound engagement with animal imagery, drawing on the symbolic heritage of Sufi literature and the poetic influence of predecessors such as Jalaluddin Rumi, Lutfi, Atoi, and Gadoi. Despite the recognized symbolic power of creature imagery in Navoi’s poetry, systematic comparative analysis of how these images evolved and were reinterpreted across related poets remained limited. This study aims to explore the genesis, artistic significance, and symbolic functions of creature imagery in Navoi’s lyrics, while comparing them with uses in the works of his contemporaries. The findings show that Navoi not only inherited rich symbolic conventions from earlier poets but also expanded them with philosophical depth and mystical content. Specific images such as the dog, moth, nightingale, lion, and gazelle are analyzed in their aesthetic and spiritual dimensions, revealing nuanced Sufi interpretations. Comparisons with Lutfi and Gadoi highlight variations in symbolic intensity, emotional range, and cultural resonance. This work provides a unique statistical and interpretive analysis of animal imagery across multiple classical poets, demonstrating Navoi’s role in elevating such symbols to new artistic heights. The study deepens the understanding of classical Uzbek literary tradition and affirms the value of symbolic analysis in interpreting spiritual and cultural messages embedded in poetic texts.