Introduction
Throughout the rich and honorable history of Azerbaijani literature, many great masters of the word have emerged. These artists reflected the nation’s fate, its struggle for freedom, and the joys and sorrows of the people through their pens. Among these greats stands a figure whose name is not only tied to poetry but also to resistance, thought, and national dignity — Khalil Rza Uluturk, truly “the sword of words” of Azerbaijan. His poetry and activism extended far beyond literature — he was the conscience of his time, a symbol of the spirit of resistance.
This article explores Khalil Rza Uluturk’s life, poetry, socio-political activity, struggle for national independence, and his contribution to Azerbaijani literature. The aim is to understand how this great figure shone as a “sword of words” and why his voice remains as sharp and vital today.
Life and the Beginning of a Literary Journey
Khalil Rza Uluturk was born on October 21, 1932, in the Salyan region. From a young age, he showed a deep interest in literature and began writing poetry while still in school. After graduating from the Faculty of Philology at Baku State University (then Azerbaijan State University), he worked at the Union of Writers of Azerbaijan and various publishing houses.
His first book, “A Young Man’s Manifesto” (1957), was received as a fresh breath in the world of poetry. From that point forward, Khalil Rza began shaping his own poetic voice — at times gentle and lyrical, at others fierce and full of call to action. His poetry harmonized tradition and modernity, lyricism and public discourse, love and patriotism.
A Warrior in Words – The Poetic Persona of Uluturk
Khalil Rza did not approach poetry solely from an aesthetic standpoint. To him, poetry was a weapon of resistance. At the center of his work stood the image of a fighter — one who wielded no blade or gun, but battled through words. He merged the militant tradition of classical ashug (folk poet-singer) art with modern poetic form to create a unique synthesis.
He often said: “I am a man of words. Fighting with words is my destiny.”
He believed in the power of words and sought to awaken the conscience of society. In this sense, he was more than a poet — he was a spiritual guide.
His poem “The Year 1937 Continues” became a cry against repression,
while the line “If my homeland calls me ‘son,’ I need nothing more — I would bloom like moss on its rock!” entered history as the pinnacle of patriotic poetry.
Independence and Freedom – Poetry as an Ideological Sword
By the late 1980s and early 1990s, Khalil Rza was no longer just a poet —
he was one of the leading ideologists of the national independence movement.
His poetry grew sharper, more political, and served as a poetic tribunal for the nation.
His cry of “Freedom!” was not just a poetic call —
it embodied the thoughts and desires of millions of Azerbaijanis.
His articles in the journal “Aydinliq”, speeches at mass rallies, and poems played a crucial role in awakening national consciousness.
After the January 20, 1990 massacre, he openly criticized the Soviet regime and Moscow’s policies. That same year, like many patriots, he was imprisoned.
Even behind bars, he continued to write, offering spiritual support to his people.
His “Prison Diary” became a moral manifesto of the era.
Personal Tragedy as National Pain – The Martyrdom of His Son Tabriz
The greatest personal tragedy in Khalil Rza’s life was the death of his son, Tabriz Khalilbeyli, in the Karabakh war.
In 1992, Tabriz volunteered for the front lines and heroically sacrificed his life for the homeland.
This loss left a deep mark on Khalil Rza — both as a father and as a citizen.
Yet it did not break him — it made his “sword of words” even sharper.
His poem “My Tabriz” is not merely a father’s lament,
but a poetic tribute to all martyrs of the nation.
He presented his son’s death not just as a personal grief,
but as part of the nation’s collective fate.
Uluturk and the Rebirth of National Spirit
The 1990s were among the most difficult and decisive years in Azerbaijani history.
During this time, Khalil Rza became a true symbol of national spirit.
He was a poetic leader who gave voice to the feelings of the people, guided them, and united them around national ideals.
He saw the preservation of language, cultural values, the liberation of Karabakh, and the restoration of independence as his highest duties.
For Uluturk, poetry and struggle were inseparable.
He was both the poet and the protector of the nation.
Uluturk’s Legacy in Azerbaijani Literature
Khalil Rza Uluturk’s work holds a special place in Azerbaijani literature, both ideologically and aesthetically.
He brought new breath, form, and ideas to poetry.
His work fused classical traditions with modern rhythm, rich poetic imagery with emotional power.
His language was vivid, powerful, and deeply expressive.
He masterfully used the full potential of the Azerbaijani language to enchant with words.
His books —
“The Year 1937 Continues,” “If My Homeland Calls Me Son,” “Where Is This World Going?”, “Prison Diary,” “My Tabriz,” “I’m Looking for You, Homeland,” “Bloody Water”, and others —
belong to the golden treasury of Azerbaijani literature.
Conclusion: A Hero Who Fought with Words
Khalil Rza Uluturk was not only a poet.
He was a man of vision, a voice of the people, the echo of conscience, the sword of words.
His life and poetry prove that sometimes,
the sharpest sword is the word itself.
And that word — was the word of truth, justice, and freedom.
Even today, his poems remain relevant.
His verses, filled with patriotism and the love of homeland,
play an important role in shaping the spirit of future generations.
He is the eternal voice of this land, the immortal soul of Azerbaijan.
And finally, in his own words:
“May my word be as powerful as God,
Let it rise like a sword — so heads may lift!”
These lines reflect the essence of his poetic and life philosophy.
He struck with words — and awakened thousands of hearts.