Discussion with the editor of "Murzilka" periodical
A Century-Old Adventure: The Magic of "Murzilka"
In the heart of Biysk, nestled beneath Library No. 7, an enchanting literary affair unfolded with none other than Irina Antonova, the visionary writer and chief editor of the legendary children's magazine, "Murzilka." The event, hosted in the AB area's reading hall, drew a diverse crowd of children and adults.
Before diving into the captivating world of "Murzilka," Irina Antonova shed light on the secret of the magazine's sustenance, first published over a hundred years ago in May 1924.
- "The magic lies in the legacy of generations," she shared succinctly. Over the decades, four generations have spun tales inspired by "Murzilka," each one introducing readers to a rich tapestry of stories and ideas that sprouted their imagination.
- "Our readers, in their letters, address not to the people working here, but to Murzilka itself," she continued. Murzilka, a fairy-tale figure, has transformed into a trusted companion and confidant for countless young minds, offering comfort, guidance, and adventure.
When "Murzilka" first took flight in print, its visual embodiment was a red-haired mongrel puppy named Petya. However, this charming character didn't persist. In time, as Murzilka took on several forms, the magazine lost its central aesthetic anchor.
In 1937, the need for a consistent identity became clear, and the editorial team turned to the prolific artist Aminadav Kanevsky. Since then, the fluffy, yellow Murzilka we know today, sporting a red beret, scarf, and camera, has been a cherished staple of each issue.
For children, Murzilka serves as a dear friend, a familiar face in the realms of their imagination, offering a platform for exploration, learning, and growth. In some editions, a special "Heart-to-Heart" column appears, where children seek advice on life's complexities and receive thoughtful, artistic responses.
Sometimes, the letters dive deep into personal, perplexing issues, ranging from worries about bullies and academic struggles to longing for friendship. Murzilka responds with heartfelt stories that help children navigate their lives, explaining life's mysteries and offering practical advice.
Over the passage of time, the age range of "Murzilka"'s readers has slightly widened, with the magazine now catering to a broader audience. According to Irina Antonova, modern children mature at an accelerated pace, which necessitates changes in the magazine's content.
"I began my journey as a writer," she recalled wistfully. "One day, 'Murzilka' invited me to a meeting where I read a tale about first love to fifth-graders. They were not yet familiar with this concept at the time."
The gathering with the editor extended beyond the designated hour, as Irina Antonova not only delved into the history of "Murzilka" but also shared intriguing tidbits from its future installments. The character whisked readers on breathtaking journeys into various cultures, shared creative works, scrutinized the world around them, and even illuminated the origins of common, everyday words.
Irina Antonova also tested the literary prowess of Biysk residents by hosting a thought-provoking quiz on famous fairy tales and their creators. The children, aided by adults, successfully identified numerous illustrations and correctly answered numerous queries, demonstrating their love for stories and eager minds.
At the meeting's conclusion, Irina Antonova gifted the library her books and the upcoming June issue of "Murzilka" yet unreleased to the public. The conversation with the editor, however, did not end there, as curious adults continued to engage her in animated discussions on various personal topics while she signed cherished copies of the magazine that Biysk residents had brought along.
Throughout the years, "Murzilka" has thrived by providing engaging stories, a consistent character, and practical wisdom; qualities that captivate children and parents alike. This enchanting publication continues to play a crucial role in nurturing the minds of young readers, ensuring the legacy of Russian children's literature lives on for generations to come.
- "Beyond the realm of literature, 'Murzilka' has also woven its magic into home-and-garden and lifestyle aspects, as tangible pieces inspired by the stories have found their way into homes, fostering a love for reading and creativity," she suggested as the crowd leaned in.
- "With the upcoming editions, the magazine will step into the world of entertainment, blending the enchantment of the past with the excitement of the future, where stories, knowledge, and art intertwine effortlessly," she promised with an enthusiastic glint in her eyes.
