Annotation to “My Mother’s Book”
The great Azerbaijani playwright Jalil Mammadguluzadeh addressed timeless, universal themes in all his works. These themes remain relevant today, resonating with us, troubling us, and making us reflect.
In his play “My Mother’s Book,” the central theme is the constant arguments and conflicts between three brothers caused by differences in their language, religion, and way of thinking.
The main character, the Mother, urges her sons to preserve their national and moral values, to embrace their mother tongue, and to remain united. However, the sons strive to meet the demands of the modern world and ultimately, in an environment enriched with innovative technologies, face the danger of losing their national identity.
Thus begins the Mother’s struggle for her children. Yet the burden of sorrow that pierces her heart does not fade; instead, it grows, turning into a monstrous, mythical dragon.
Unfortunately, in this difficult struggle, the enormous burden — as mighty as a dragon — overwhelms the Mother.
Of course, mastering modern technologies and foreign languages is important and beneficial, but every individual must know their native language, national values, and history. Knowing one’s mother tongue is a path to self-awareness and a sacred duty.
