The half-missed shot by Memtili Zunun, Translated by Memet T Zunun

The half-missed shot	چالا تەككەن ئوق
Memtili Zunun	مەمىتىلى زۇنۇن
Translated by Memet T Zunun
Oh Gosh! we missed the shot, Our hearts, they bleed, we've missed a lot. Under the whip, we cower, we sway, Like beasts of burden, day by day.   From our hearts, shots fired in despair, Mountains, fields, engulfed, a fiery flare. Why? the noose won't burn, it clings so tight, We're trapped, imprisoned in endless night.   Now we see, that shot half-missed, we dread, Wolves’ peace pact, it's the path we tread. Oh Gosh! we missed the shot, we call, Appeasement, our hearts' darkest thrall.	ۋادەرىخا ئوقنى تەككۈزدۇق چالا، شۇ تۈپەيلى باغرىمىز قانلىق-يارا. قامچا-كالتەك ئاستىدا قالدۇق يانا، قوش بىلەن سۆرەمگە مەھكۇم ئۇي-كالا.   قەھرىمىزدىن ئوت چىچىلدى قانچە رەت، قىپقىزىل يانغىنغا چۆمدى تاغ-دالا. كۆيمىدى يانغىندا سىرىتماق نە ئۈچۈن، نە ئۈچۈن؟ بىز بۇ بالاغا مۇپتىلا.   ئەمدى بىلسەك ئوقنى تەككۇزدۇق چالا، ھەممىدىن بەتتەر ئىكەن سۈلھى-سالا. ۋادەرىخا ئوقنى تەككۈزدۇق چالا، ھەممىدىن يامان ئىكەن سۈلھى-سالا.

  Translated in March 2011 

Mamtili Zunun (Tashnai)

Mt Zunun

Mamtili Zunun, also known as Tashnai, was a distinguished Uyghur writer, playwright, poet, and dramatist known for his prolific contributions to Uyghur literature and performing arts. Born in 1939 into a family with a strong cultural background in the city of Kashgar, his early exposure to a rich literary environment laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in creative expression.

Early Years and Education:

Mamtili Zunun's journey in the world of literature commenced at an early age. At just 11 years old in 1950, he penned his first poem, marking the initiation of his literary odyssey. He showed remarkable promise and ambition, making his initial foray into the realm of writing. His formal education culminated in his graduation from the Faculty of Literature at the "Xinjiang Institute" in 1958, providing him with a solid academic foundation.

Artistic Career and Achievements:

After completing his studies, Mamtili Zunun ventured into the professional arena of creative arts. He embarked on a career that spanned various prominent ensembles, including the Kashgar Provincial Art Ensemble and the Uyghur Autonomous Region Music Ensemble. These experiences played a pivotal role in honing his artistic talents and propelling his advancement in the creative field.

Versatility in Literature:

Mamtili Zunun's literary repertoire is characterized by its remarkable diversity. He demonstrated proficiency across various genres of literature, leaving an indelible mark on Uyghur literature. His body of work encompasses collections of poems and stories such as "Visal Sehri," "Gulmihri," "Caravan Song," "Family Songs," "Mashreep," "Southern Battle March," "Aziza," and "The Spring of the Country." Additionally, he contributed to the dramatic arts with notable works, including a collection of short stories titled "Double Mosque," a two-part television series titled "Yash," and an opera entitled "Nadamat."

Intellectual Independence and Legacy:

Mamtili Zunun was not only a prolific creator but also a writer who valued intellectual freedom and independence of thought. He steered clear of conforming to court poetry and remained committed to his artistic integrity, reflecting a deep-seated dedication to his craft and cultural heritage.

Legacy and Passing:

Mamtili Zunun's contributions to Uyghur literature and performing arts have left an enduring legacy. His work continues to inspire and resonate with audiences, serving as a testament to his enduring impact on Uyghur cultural expression. Tragically, Mamtili Zunun (Tashnai) passed away in September 2012, leaving behind a body of work that continues to enrich Uyghur literature and the cultural tapestry of Silkland.