Artistic Interpretation of The Problem of The Transition Period In The Works of Shukur Kholmirzaev

Abstract

Literature has long served as a reflective medium through which societies navigate their historical and ideological transformations. In Uzbek literature, the late 1980s and early 1990s marked a period of socio-political upheaval associated with the collapse of the Soviet Union and the emergence of new national consciousness. Despite this significance, limited scholarly attention has been given to how Uzbek fiction, particularly the work of Shukur Kholmirzaev, artistically represents the psychological and ideological complexities of the transition period. This study aims to analyze Kholmirzaev’s artistic interpretation of transitional trauma, generational conflict, and the lingering impact of authoritarian ideology as reflected in his short story “The Statue.” The research finds that the story encapsulates the internal crisis of a generation trapped between loyalty to past ideals and the necessity of embracing new values. Kholmirzaev effectively uses internal monologue, symbolism, and character-driven narration to express deep societal contradictions, fear-based governance, and the enduring effects of political repression. The study highlights Kholmirzaev’s unique literary technique in animating statues as symbolic characters and giving voice to internalized historical trauma. The findings underscore the role of literature in preserving cultural memory, shaping identity during times of national transformation, and providing future generations with critical insight into the psychological cost of systemic political shifts.