Abdullah Goran
Born in 1904, Goran became famous for his combination of traditional Kurdish verses modern lyricism, diversifying the literature of his time.
This account refers to his story titled View of the Open Road
Social Meaning
“A mountain mass, wild and defiant, Has gathered blue heaven in its embrace”
The references to the rugged but majestic nature is reflecting the struggle of the Kurds and their ultimate goal - they are fighting for independence, recognition and cultural acceptance, with rugged, unwavering persistence.
Their struggle is also explained with references to the unpredictability of the future: “the narrow footpath… from tunnel to tunnel …into anxiety without end." This highlights the unknowing, but grounding their will in the strength and resilience of the land aims at giving the Kurds hope and reassurance.
Literary Significance
The metaphors of this poem are used to represent key Kurdish attributes.
Most notably their ties to the land and cultural heritage to the area, as well as their resilience, perseverance and honour when confronted.
This poem aims at reigniting these, showing the Kurds what their heritage and ties to the landscape, ensuring that the reader understands who it belongs to.
Furthermore, much like Xanî's reasons for writing in Kurdish, Goran shows the literary capabilities ok Kurdish in this prose, with detailed and complex metaphors.
Broader Meaning
Taking a step back, we see Goran describing their trials as "Great Boulders....that Heaven has not yet sent rolling down." He says this to show that the forces attempting to control and in many cases, wipe out the Kurds are out of their control, as if it were the landscape controlling them, they have little influence. All they can do is remember their heritage, connection to the land and to keep pushing on, as they too are as much a part of the landscape as their oppressors are portrayed as being
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