Tradition and modernity in Bagaudin Uzunaev's series "Poets"

The article is devoted to the analysis of the cycle "Poets" by the contemporary Dagestani poet Bagaudin Uzunayev. The work explores the central conflict in Uzunayev's work between genuine, divinely inspired creativity rooted in the tradition of romanticism and ancient ideals, and modern literary practice governed by market laws and pragmatism. The cycle is viewed as a holistic artistic manifesto that combines lyrical elements with sharp satire and historical and philosophical reflections with existential experiences. The article traces how the author builds his concept of poetic vocation through a system of oppositions (inspiration/monetization, poet/poet-writer, asceticism/satiety, eternal/momentary). Special attention is paid to the role of ancient reminiscences (images of Catullus, Gaius Marius, and the Castalian Spring), which serve Uzunayev to find spiritual support and draw parallels between different eras. In conclusion, the key image of the cycle is analyzed – the “narrow cell” of the wandering poet, which becomes a powerful metaphor for alienation, spiritual search, and tireless creative effort in a marginal and hostile world.