The bilingual publication “Nikoloz Baratashvili,” crafted by the Union of Tbilisi Museums, is a literary venture that seeks to illuminate the enigmatic life and profound works of the great Georgian poet.
Otar Chiladze, a revered Georgian writer, sets the tone for the publication with a foreword that poignantly captures the mysterious essence surrounding Baratashvili’s life. Chiladze writes, “Of course, he didn’t know himself, if he could, his relatives didn’t know either, nobody knew. It was dark in Georgia. The impassable darkness stood firm. It was difficult for him to live in this darkness. He was afraid of this darkness and, like a man in a collapsed tunnel, he used all his efforts to climb up to Samzeo.”
Tamar Sharabidze’s insightful research paper adds depth to the narrative, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of Nikoloz Baratashvili’s life, work, and the intricate web of emotions that fueled his creativity. The publication seamlessly weaves together Baratashvili’s biography, personal anecdotes, and snippets from his active engagement in public affairs during that era.
The inclusion of significant letters and manuscripts provides readers with an intimate glimpse into the poet’s thoughts and struggles. The bilingual nature of the publication ensures accessibility to a broader audience, allowing both Georgian and international readers to delve into the intricacies of Baratashvili’s legacy.
Beyond the written word, the book transforms into a visual journey through the inclusion of photographs showcasing museum exhibits and manuscripts. These visual elements serve as windows into Baratashvili’s world, enhancing the reader’s connection to the poet and the historical context in which he lived.
A particular focus of the publication is the narrative surrounding Nikoloz Baratashvili’s house-museum, nestled in the vibrant district of Kala-Uban in Tbilisi. Since 2016, this museum has stood as a testament to the poet’s enduring legacy and is an integral part of the Tbilisi Museums Union.
“Nikoloz Baratashvili: Unveiling the Shadows of a Georgian Poet” invites readers on a captivating journey, where darkness and light intertwine, revealing the multifaceted persona of a literary giant and the cultural tapestry of his time.
Nikoloz Baratashvili Memorial House-Museum, an integral part of the Tbilisi Museums Union. Manuscripts and photographs featured in the publication are meticulously preserved in esteemed institutions such as the National Library of the Parliament of Georgia, the National Archives of Georgia, the Korneli Kekelidze National Center for Manuscripts, and the Giorgi Leonidze State Museum of Georgian Literature.
Nino Andriashvili is credited as the artist-designer, and Mirian Kiladze as the photographer.
Published by “Cézanne”.
The book is available at a cost of 8 GEL.
