Incantation by Laughter

poem by Khlebnikov

Also known as: “Zaklyatiye smekhom”

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July 19, 2026

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"Incantation by Laughter" is a poem by Velimir Khlebnikov, a founder of Russian Futurism. The poem is known for its linguistic experimentation, creating a "translogical language" by generating permutations of the root word for "laughter" with unusual prefixes and suffixes. This focus on word creation and etymology is characteristic of Russian Futurism's exploration of language as pure sound and its departure from conventional syntax. Khlebnikov's work, while influential, is often difficult for general readers due to its experimental nature.123

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Futurism
Literature
…Khlebnikov’s “Zaklyatiye smekhom” (1910; “Incantation by Laughter”), generates a series of permutations built on the root -smekh (“laughter”) by adding impossible prefixes and suffixes. The result is a typical (for Russian Futurism) concern with etymology and word creation. Khlebnikov’s and Alexey Kruchenykh’s radical forays into linguistic poetry went hand…
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…Khlebnikov’s “Zaklyatiye smekhom” (1910; “Incantation by Laughter”), generates a series of permutations built on the root -smekh (“laughter”) by adding impossible prefixes and suffixes. The result is a typical (for Russian Futurism) concern with etymology and word creation. Khlebnikov’s and Alexey Kruchenykh’s radical forays into linguistic poetry went hand…
Read More