Wistful Man Diary: A Unique Anthology of Translated Iranian Poetry

Bringing the Beauty of Iranian Poetry to Life

Edik Boghosian, a talented designer known for his innovative creations, has brought the beauty of Iranian poetry to life with his latest project, the Wistful Man Diary. Inspired by the frequent use of poems by the renowned 14th-century Iranian poet Hafez as a form of divination in everyday Iranian life, Boghosian has created a unique anthology that combines the art of translation with exquisite design.

The Wistful Man Diary is a small, pocket-sized book that contains 365 short poems, translated into Armenian by Boghosian himself. Each page features a single poem, allowing readers to discover a new verse every day. The book also includes an extra poem for leap years, making it a truly comprehensive collection.

What sets the Wistful Man Diary apart is not only its content but also its design. The cover design is inspired by Iranian lithographic books and the floral ornamentation found in Iranian miniatures. The color palette, featuring shades of blue, draws inspiration from the stunning architecture of Iran. The result is a visually captivating book that reflects the essence of Iranian culture.

The Wistful Man Diary is a labor of love, with Boghosian dedicating himself to translating a poem a day for half a year before deciding to turn it into an anthology. The book is a limited edition, with only 366 copies available, making it a truly special and collectible item. The semi-handmade nature of the book, with hot foil on cardboard covers and hand coloring, adds to its charm and uniqueness.

One of the key challenges Boghosian faced during the creation of the Wistful Man Diary was selecting the perfect poems to include in the anthology. With so many beautiful and meaningful poems to choose from, he had to carefully curate the collection to ensure it told a cohesive and engaging story. The result is a book that not only serves as an anthology of short poems but also weaves together a captivating love story.

The Wistful Man Diary is a testament to Boghosian's dedication to his craft and his passion for bringing together art, design, and literature. It is a true celebration of the beauty of Iranian poetry and a must-have for poetry lovers and design enthusiasts alike.

Image Credits: Edik Boghosian, 2015-2016

Awards and Accolades: The Wistful Man Diary was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category in 2017. This prestigious award recognizes designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.