Благопожелание чаю в калмыцкой лирике ХХ в.: фольк­лорный аспект

Abstract

Introduction. In Kalmyk folklore, the genre of tea well-wishes (Kalm. цәәд тәвх йѳрәл) accompanies many rituals characterized by magic poetry and aimed to secure health, longevity, well-being, human happiness, as well as preservation and prosperity of the surrounding world. Tea is a major meal component to be offered to the spirits of ancestors, deities, and individuals for the fulfillment of well-wishes. In Kalmyk traditional meals, tea remains a basic element. The article is topical enough since tea well-wishes in 20th-century Kalmyk poetry are still somewhat understudied. Goals. The study seeks to identify related examples in terms of genre, consider the folklore tradition and innovations, analyze available Russian translations for adequacy. Materials and methods. The article focuses on representative Kalmyk- and Russian-language (including Russian translations) poems by Kalmyk poets addressed to tea. Methodology rests on historical-literary and comparative approaches to reveal the relation between folklore and poetry, the continuity of this genre throughout Kalmykia’s literary process. Results. The paper attests to the bulk of poetic tea well-wishes — in the folklore aspect — underwent some changes and were created in the mid-to-late 20th century. Conclusions. Tea well-wishes in writings of Kalmyk poets are characterized by genre syntheses, certain plots, inclusions of proverbs and sayings, folklore formulas, praises to the beverage, descriptions of how it be cooked, and its leading role in the ethnic meals model.