The popular novel and globalization in the literature of Turkic peoples: language, translation, and institutional mechanisms

Abstract

This article examines the impact of globalization on the functional transformation of literature in the twenty-first century, focusing on the mechanisms through which Turkic literatures enter global literary circulation. Drawing on theoretical frameworks developed by David Damrosch, Pascale Casanova, and Franco Moretti, the study argues that contemporary literature operates not only as an aesthetic practice but also as a system shaped by translation, circulation, and institutional recognition. The concept of world literature is employed strictly as a theoretical reference, while particular attention is given to the role of the popular novel as a mediating genre within global literary markets. The empirical analysis offers a comparative perspective on Turkish, Azerbaijani, and Central Asian literatures. The global success of the Turkish novel is examined through the works of Orhan Pamuk, Elif Shafak, and Ahmet Umut, highlighting the significance of systematic translation programs such as TEDA, international literary awards, and global publishing networks. In contrast, Azerbaijani literature is shown to rely largely on individual initiatives and English-Russian language circulation, while Central Asian literatures continue to depend heavily on Russian as a mediating language for global visibility. The cases of Chinghiz Aitmatov, Olzhas Suleimenov, and Hamid Ismailov illustrate the structural importance of intermediary languages and institutional support. The article concludes that the integration of Turkic literatures into global literary circulation depends not only on aesthetic value but also on sustained translation policies, institutional mechanisms, and strategic engagement with global literary markets.