Abstract

This paper examines the reconstruction of social memory in post-Soviet Uzbekistan through a literary analysis of Tog'ay Murod’s novel Bu Dunyoda O'lib Bo'lmaydi. The transition period marked by perestroika and glasnost brought profound transformations to Uzbek society, particularly in relation to religion, identity, and collective consciousness. This study explores how these shifts are reflected and reinterpreted in literary discourse.

Drawing on theories of cultural and social memory, the paper analyzes how the novel represents changing attitudes toward religion during the late Soviet period and in the aftermath of independence. It focuses on the tension between ideological structures imposed by the Soviet regime and individual conscience, as depicted through the characters and narrative structure. The analysis also considers how the re-emergence of religious discourse functions as a key element in the reconstruction of social memory.

Special attention is given to the language of the text and its role in representing societal transformation. The linguistic choices and narrative strategies employed by Tog'ay Murod are examined as mechanisms through which shifts in values, beliefs, and identities are articulated. The novel’s fictional structure is analyzed in relation to historical realities in order to reveal how literature mediates between lived experience and collective memory.

The paper argues that Bu Dunyoda O'lib Bo'lmaydi does not merely depict social change but actively participates in the reconfiguration of memory by foregrounding the moral and ideological dilemmas experienced by individuals. By situating literary analysis within broader socio-political transformations, this study contributes to discussions on memory, religion, and identity in Central Eurasia.