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Aziz NesinTurkish short story writer, playwright, novelist, publicist
Date of Birth: 20.12.1915
Country: ![]() |
Content:
- Aziz Nesin: A Literary and Political Icon
- Pseudonym and Literary Beginnings
- Military Service and Journalistic Career
- Political Activism and Literary Endeavors
- "Literary Yearbook of the Aziz Nesin Foundation"
- Social and Political Involvement
- Trial and Acquittal
- Legacy and Impact
Aziz Nesin: A Literary and Political Icon
Early Life and EducationTurkish novelist, playwright, and humorist Aziz Nesin was born on December 20, 1920, in the idyllic setting of Heybeliada, one of the Princes' Islands. The irony of his birthplace, he noted, was that it was a "paradise not meant for people like me." Despite his humble origins, Nesin's insatiable curiosity led him to pursue both technical and artistic education. He graduated from a military engineering academy in 1939, where he honed his writing skills as a correspondent. Concurrently, he attended lectures at the Academy of Fine Arts from 1937 to 1939.
Pseudonym and Literary Beginnings
In 1934, a law abolishing titles and traditional forms of address in Turkey prompted Nesin to adopt his famous pseudonym, meaning "What are you?" It was a constant reminder to question his place in society. Throughout his literary career, he used over 50 pseudonyms, reflecting his sharp wit and the controversial nature of his satirical works.
Military Service and Journalistic Career
Nesin's military service took him from the plains of Thrace to the mountainous region of Kars. His experiences in the army provided him with a rich tapestry of characters and stories that would serve as the foundation for many of his future literary endeavors. After his discharge in 1944, he transitioned to journalism, writing for various newspapers and magazines.
Political Activism and Literary Endeavors
Nesin's encounter with Sabahattin Ali had a profound impact on his ideological and aesthetic development. Their collaboration on the weekly magazine "Marko Pasha" exposed him to the complexities of Turkish politics and social issues. In 1957, Nesin co-founded the publishing house "Düschon," which became a platform for marginalized Turkish writers.
"Literary Yearbook of the Aziz Nesin Foundation"
Nesin's literary output extended beyond his own works. In 1976, he launched the "Literary Yearbook of the Aziz Nesin Foundation," a monumental undertaking that published over a thousand pages of literary analysis and criticism. Despite its financial losses, Nesin maintained the yearbook as a vital contribution to Turkish literature.
Social and Political Involvement
Nesin was not only a prolific writer but also an ardent social activist. He established the "Nazim Hikmet Society" to honor the renowned poet and the "Society of Peace Supporters" to advocate against the threat of nuclear war and American military presence in Turkey. For thirteen years, he presided over the "Union of Writers of Turkey," which protected authors' rights and promoted social justice.
Trial and Acquittal
In the aftermath of the 1980 military coup, Nesin and his fellow union leaders faced charges of "communist activity and propaganda." Despite the prosecutor's demands for lengthy prison sentences, the trial concluded with the acquittal of the defendants. Nesin's unwavering commitment to justice and his ability to mobilize public support proved instrumental in their vindication.
Legacy and Impact
Aziz Nesin passed away on July 6, 1995, leaving behind a profound legacy of literary brilliance and political activism. His satirical works exposed the follies and injustices of his time, while his social initiatives promoted tolerance and equality. Nesin's contributions to Turkish literature and culture continue to inspire generations of writers and readers alike.