The End of the Dark Era: Mongolian Poetry Collection
The End of the Dark Era represents a groundbreaking publication as the first book of Mongolian poetry to be published in the United States. This avant-garde collection brings the voice of the Mongolian steppes to English-speaking readers through the work of Tseveendorjin Oidov, a distinguished figure in both Mongolian literature and visual arts.
About This Poetry Collection
This bilingual poetry book traverses the Mongolian dreamscape through verses populated by horses, eagles, and a recurring darkness that Oidov transforms with startling descriptions and profound empathy. The collection stands as one of the few avant-garde works to emerge from Mongolia's vast steppes, offering readers an authentic glimpse into Mongolian contemporary poetry.
The book features a unique dual artistic expression: the second half contains short poems accompanied by thirty-six of Oidov's abstract line drawings, merging literary and visual art forms. This integration reflects Oidov's dual mastery as both poet and painter, providing readers with a multisensory literary experience.
Author and Translator
Tseveendorjin Oidov is recognized as the first Mongolian Modernist and is highly regarded as a visual artist. Based in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, his work bridges traditional Mongolian themes with modernist sensibilities.
Simon Wickhamsmith serves as international director of the Mongolian Academy of Poetry and Culture and co-directs the Orchuulga Foundation, dedicated to translating Mongolian literature. His translation work has earned him PEN Translation Fund grants in 2008 and 2015, and recognition as a Leading Cultural Worker by the government of Mongolia.
Book Details
This paperback edition is published by Phoneme Media and includes both English translations and original Mongolian text. The collection offers readers access to a literary tradition rarely available in English translation, making it an essential addition for poetry enthusiasts, world literature collectors, and readers interested in Asian literature.
The book serves as both a literary work and an art object, with Oidov's line drawings providing visual counterpoints to his poetic vision. This first translation makes Mongolian modernist poetry accessible to a broader international audience.
