Famous Turkish Poets

Rumi was a Muslim scholar, theologian, and mystic who lived most of his life under the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum. He was an Islamic molvi, issuing fatwas and giving sermons in Konya. Rumi practiced Sufism as a disciple of Burhan ud-Din, becoming an Islamic Jurist. He traveled to Damascus and spent time there before meeting the dervish Shams-e Tabrizi, which transformed his life. Rumi is known for his poetic works, especially the Masnavi, which he dictated over twelve years. He believed in using music, poetry, and dance as a path for reaching God.

Yunus Emre, also known as Derviş Yûnus, was a Turkish folk poet and Sufi who left a lasting impact on Turkish culture. He devoted his life to poetry and spiritual teachings, spreading messages of love, unity, and tolerance. Yunus Emre's works resonate with themes of humanity and divine love, attracting followers from various backgrounds. His profound influence led to the UNESCO General Conference commemorating the 750th anniversary of his birth as International Yunus Emre Year in 1991, highlighting his enduring legacy in literature and spirituality.

Ziya Gökalp was a prominent Turkish sociologist, writer, poet, and politician known for his influential work in shaping the reforms of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and the development of Kemalism in modern Turkey. He rejected Ottomanism and Islamism in favor of Turkish nationalism, advocating for Turkification through the promotion of Turkish language and culture. His ideas popularized Pan-Turkism and Turanism, emphasizing a super-national Turkish identity and emphasizing a territorial orientation towards Turkic peoples. Gökalp's work had a lasting impact on Turkish sociology and national identity.

Namık Kemal was a prominent Ottoman writer, poet, democrat, intellectual, reformer, journalist, playwright, and political activist known for his influential role in the Young Ottomans movement. He played a key part in advocating for governmental reform during the late Tanzimat period, which culminated in the First Constitutional Era in 1876. Kemal's works emphasized the principles of freedom and patriotism, reshaping Western concepts such as natural rights and constitutional government. His contributions had a lasting impact on reform movements in Turkey and other former Ottoman territories.

Ali-Shir Nava'i was a prominent Timurid poet, writer, statesman, linguist, mystic, and painter. He is renowned as the greatest figure in Chagatai literature, advocating for the superiority of his native Chagatai Turkic language over Persian for literary expression. Nava'i's work, particularly "Muhakamat al-Lughatayn," emphasized the richness and precision of Turkic vocabulary. Considered the founder of early Turkic literature, his legacy is honored through numerous monuments and institutions in countries across Central Asia and beyond, reflecting his lasting impact on literature and culture.

Sheikh Galip was a prominent figure in Turkish literature, known for his contributions to divan poetry and mysticism. He was a skilled poet who excelled in composing intricate and profound verses, showcasing his deep understanding of spirituality and human emotions. His works reflected a blend of artistic expression and spiritual insight, earning him a respected place among his contemporaries. Sheikh Galip's poetry continues to be celebrated for its beauty and wisdom, leaving a lasting impact on the world of Turkish literature.

Necip Fazıl Kısakürek was a prominent figure in Turkish literature, known for his work as a poet, novelist, and playwright. He was also recognized as an Islamist ideologue and conspiracy theorist. Referred to simply as NFK, he gained attention from the French philosopher Henri Bergson, who later became his teacher. Throughout his professional life, Necip Fazıl Kısakürek made significant contributions to Turkish literature and played a key role in shaping cultural and intellectual discourse in Turkey.

Neşet Ertaş was a renowned Turkish folk music singer, lyricist, and modern ashik known for his mastery of the traditional Turkish instrument, the bağlama. He was recognized as a halk ozanı, or "folk bard," for his contributions to Turkish folk music. Receiving the nickname "Bozkırın Tezenesi" (Plectrum of the Steppe) from Yaşar Kemal, Ertaş left a lasting impact on the music scene with his virtuoso skills and unique style, solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in Turkish musical history.

André Marie Chénier, a French poet of Greek and Franco-Levantine origin, played a significant role during the French Revolution, with his sensual and emotive poetry earning him recognition as a precursor of the Romantic movement. However, his professional life was tragically cut short when he was sentenced to death by the guillotine for alleged "crimes against the state." Despite his untimely demise, Chénier's legacy lives on through various artistic works, including Umberto Giordano's opera Andrea Chénier, which immortalizes his story.

John Tzetzes was a Byzantine poet and grammarian who made significant contributions to preserving ancient Greek literature and scholarship in the 12th century. His most important work, the Book of Histories or Chiliades, is a long poem that contains unique knowledge and serves as a commentary on his own letters. Additionally, he wrote the Allegoriai on the Iliad and the Odyssey, which are didactic poems offering interpretations of Homeric theology. Tzetzes' professional life was dedicated to studying, interpreting, and disseminating classical Greek texts.

Alcman was a renowned choral poet from Sparta, composing hymns, partheneia, and preludes to epic poetry. His works, largely lost until the discovery of fragments in the 19th century, were known for their use of the Doric dialect and Aeolic elements. Alcman's poetry, often strophic and employing dactylic tetrameter, was meant for performance in Spartan social and religious contexts, particularly by choruses of unmarried women. Scholars debate the nature of his compositions, with interpretations ranging from love songs to harvest rituals. Alcman's language is vivid and descriptive, focusing on nature and animals, showcasing his skill in capturing visual imagery and emotions.

Orhan Veli Kanık, a pioneering Turkish poet, co-founded the Garip Movement with Oktay Rıfat and Melih Cevdet, aiming to revolutionize traditional Turkish poetry by incorporating colloquial language and eschewing traditional forms. He rejected syllable and aruz meters, rhyme, and conventional literary techniques to create a new poetic style. Despite facing criticism initially, his innovative works paved the way for a new era in Turkish verse, influencing poetry between 1945-1950. Kanık's diverse body of work, including poetry, essays, articles, and translations, continues to be celebrated for its groundbreaking themes and language.

Aşık Paşa was a Turkish poet and mystic known for his significant contributions to literature during the late 13th and early 14th centuries. He is best known for his work "Garipname," a collection of poems and stories reflecting Sufi themes and Turkish folk culture. Aşık Paşa's literary career flourished as he gained recognition for his poetic skills and spiritual insights. His works continue to be studied and admired for their depth, creativity, and influence on Turkish literature and mysticism.

Şeyhî was a renowned Turkish physician and poet known for his significant contributions to Divan literature. He played a crucial role in advancing this literary genre and was considered one of the most important poets of his time. Şeyhî's influence extended to future generations of poets, impacting their work. In addition to his literary pursuits, he served as the private physician to the Ottoman Sultan Koca Murat, showcasing his expertise and prominence in the field of medicine as well.

Gül Baba, also known as Jafer, was an Ottoman Bektashi dervish poet and a close companion of Sultan Suleiman I. He actively participated in various military campaigns across Europe during the reign of Mehmed II and continued his service under Sultan Suleiman I. Gül Baba's professional life was characterized by his role as a poet and spiritual figure within the Bektashi order, as well as his contributions to the Ottoman military efforts during significant campaigns in Europe, showcasing his dedication to both spiritual and worldly pursuits.

Aziz Nesin was a prolific Turkish writer and humorist who authored over 100 books. He rose to prominence during a time when Turks did not have official surnames and was compelled to adopt one following the Surname Law of 1934. Known for his wit and satire, Nesin became a leading figure in Turkish literature. He used his platform to challenge societal norms and advocate for freedom of expression. Nesin's work continues to be celebrated for its insightful commentary and humor.

Mimnermus, the Greek elegiac poet, left a lasting legacy with his historical epic, Smyrneis. Known for addressing elegies to the flute girl Nanno, his works often explored erotic themes. Additionally, Mimnermus was renowned for his detailed descriptions of events like solar eclipses in his poetry. His professional life was marked by a dedication to crafting verses that captured the essence of love, history, and natural phenomena, making him a significant figure in ancient Greek literature.

Âşık Veysel was a prominent Turkish Alevi ashik, bağlama virtuoso, and folk poet, known for his melancholic songs that explored themes of morality, love, faith, life and death, patriotism, and nature. Blind since childhood, his unique perspective as a blind man shaped his artistic expression. He is revered as an icon of Turkish folk music and literature, with popular songs like Uzun İnce Bir Yoldayım, Kara Toprak, Dostlar Beni Hatırlasın, and Güzelliğin On Para Etmez. Veysel received posthumous awards and recognition, including a Presidential Culture and Arts Grand Award and a recommendation for UNESCO commemoration.

Jacob of Serugh was a prominent Syriac poet-theologian known for his extensive body of work in late antiquity. He served as an ecclesiastical official in Suruç, Turkey, before becoming a bishop near the end of his life. Belonging to Miaphysite Christianity, he was recognized for his moderate views compared to his contemporaries. Nicknamed the "Flute of the Holy Spirit" and the "Lyre of the Believing Church," his writings were highly regarded, with 400 of his mimre still extant out of the 763 attributed to him. His extensive corpus of homilies ranks him among the top authors of late antiquity.

Nicander of Colophon was a prominent Greek poet, physician, and grammarian who flourished in the 2nd century BC. He held the hereditary priesthood of Apollo in Claros, near Colophon. Nicander's professional legacy is defined by his surviving works in both prose and verse, including Theriaca and Alexipharmaca, which focused on venomous animals, wounds, poisons, and antidotes. His medical knowledge was influenced by Apollodorus of Egypt. Nicander's works were highly regarded in antiquity, praised by Cicero, imitated by Ovid and Lucan, and quoted by Pliny and others.

Nefʿī, also known by his real name ʿOmer, was an Ottoman poet and satirist with a prolific professional life. He had a significant impact on Ottoman literature, particularly in the field of divan poetry. Nefʿī served in various administrative positions within the Ottoman government, showcasing his versatility and influence beyond just his literary talents. His works often reflected the political and social climate of his time, earning him a reputation as a keen observer and commentator on the issues of his era.

İbrahim Şinasi Efendi was a pioneering Ottoman intellectual known for his contributions to Turkish dramaturgy, journalism, translation, playwriting, linguistics, and newspaper editing. He was an innovator in various fields, including writing one of the earliest Ottoman plays, promoting the translation of French poetry into Turkish, simplifying Ottoman Turkish script, and writing for the broader public. Şinasi used his newspapers to advocate for European Enlightenment ideals during the Tanzimat period and was an early proponent of a constitution for the Ottoman Empire, influencing later reform movements.

Zenodotus of Ephesus was a Greek grammarian, literary critic, and the first librarian of the Library of Alexandria. He was appointed as the first Director of the library by the Ptolemaic court and also served as the official tutor to the royal children. Zenodotus was known for his critical editing of Homer's works, organizing the library's materials by subject matter and author names, and introducing the use of metadata tags on scrolls for easy identification. His scholarly contributions laid a solid foundation for future criticism and organization of library collections.

Halit Ziya Uşaklıgil was a prominent Turkish author, poet, and playwright who played a significant role in the Edebiyat-ı Cedide movement during the late Ottoman Empire. He founded and contributed to various literary movements and institutions, notably establishing the influential journal Servet-i Fünun. Uşaklıgil was known for his critical stance against Sultan Abdul Hamid II, resulting in government censorship of his work. His extensive body of work encompassed novels, plays, short stories, and essays, with his notable novel "Aşk-ı Memnu" being adapted into a successful television series.

Bion of Smyrna was a renowned ancient Greek bucolic poet known for his works in both bucolic and erotic poetry. His surviving works include the "Lament to Adonis" and seventeen shorter fragments, all composed in dactylic hexameter and Doric dialect. Bion's poetry, particularly his "Lament for Adonis," influenced various ancient poets and novelists, with his work continuing to be read and referenced until the sixth century AD. Despite some works being transmitted anonymously and attributed to others, Bion's legacy as a significant poet in ancient Greece remains prominent.

Ibn Kemal, also known as Kemalpaşazâde, was a prominent Ottoman historian, jurist, and poet. He served as a military judge, Kadı of Edirne, and Shaykh al-Islām during the reigns of Ottoman rulers Bayezid II, Selim the Resolute, and Suleiman the Magnificent. He was commissioned to write the Ottoman history "The Chronicles of the House of Osman" and played a vital role in codifying the Hanafi school of thought in the Ottoman Empire. Additionally, he authored numerous works in Turkish, Persian, and Arabic, covering various subjects such as Quranic commentaries, jurisprudence, philosophy, and poetry.

Parthenius of Nicaea, known as a Greek grammarian and poet, is primarily recognized for his elegies and short epic poems. Referred to as "the last of the Alexandrians," he holds a notable legacy in literature. Parthenius is even credited with potentially teaching Greek to the renowned Roman poet Virgil. His surviving manuscript, the "Palatinus Heidelbergensis graecus," stands as a testament to his linguistic expertise and literary contributions. Parthenius of Nicaea's professional life was defined by his significant impact on poetry and grammar during his time.

Zeki Müren was a prominent Turkish singer, composer, songwriter, actor, and poet known for his significant contributions to Turkish classical music. Referred to as "The Sun of Art" and "Pasha," he was recognized as a "State Artist" in 1991 due to his immense impact on the art industry. Müren made history as the first singer in Turkey to achieve a gold certification. Throughout his career, he recorded and released numerous songs on cassettes and phonograph records, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in Turkish music.

Ömer Zülfü Livaneli is a prominent Turkish figure known for his versatile career as a musician, author, poet, and politician. Despite facing imprisonment multiple times due to his political views, Livaneli went into exile in 1972 but later returned to Turkey in 1984. He has collaborated with renowned artists and intellectuals, including Elia Kazan, Arthur Miller, James Baldwin, and Peter Ustinov. Livaneli's significant contributions to world peace led to his appointment as a Goodwill Ambassador to UNESCO in 1995. Additionally, he has served in the Turkish Parliament and the Council of Europe.

Bâkî, known as Mahmud Abdülbâkî, was a prominent Ottoman Turkish poet with the pen name Bâḳî. He was revered for his significant contributions to Turkish and Azerbaijani literature, establishing himself as a distinguished figure in the literary world. His talent and creativity earned him the title Sultânüş-şuarâ, meaning "Sultan of poets." Throughout his professional life, Bâkî's works were widely celebrated and recognized for their artistic excellence, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest poets in Turkish and Azerbaijani literary history.

Nedim, an Ottoman lyric poet of the Tulip Period, achieved fame during Ahmed III's reign. Known for his slightly decadent and licentious poetry, he incorporated folk poetic forms into the court. His work, often in classical formats, showcased a unique blend of traditional and contemporary themes. Nedim's contributions to Ottoman poetry included pushing boundaries and exploring new avenues of expression, leading to his recognition as a significant figure in Turkish literature.

Tevfik Fikret, born Mehmed Tevfik, was an influential Ottoman educator and poet known for his significant contributions to Turkish poetry. He played a pivotal role in shaping the modern school of Turkish poetry, leaving a lasting impact on the literary landscape. Fikret's works were characterized by their innovative style and themes, reflecting the changing social and cultural dynamics of his time. Beyond his poetic achievements, he also made notable contributions as an educator, further solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the development of Turkish literature.

Marie-Joseph de Chénier was a prominent French poet, dramatist, and politician known for his contributions to literature and involvement in the French Revolution. He achieved success with his plays like "Charles IX" and "Henri VIII," which had political undertones and garnered significant attention. Chénier also faced censorship and controversy due to his revolutionary works like "Caïus Gracchus" and "Timoléon." Despite being involved in politics, he was suspected of moderate sentiments and faced consequences for opposing Napoleon Bonaparte, ultimately transitioning to roles in education and literary criticism.

Phocylides, the Greek gnomic poet of Miletus, was well-known for his "maxims" that expressed disdain for the superficial allure of wealth and status. Despite being a contemporary of Theognis of Megara, Phocylides stood out for his straightforward and insightful thoughts on honor, justice, and wisdom. His work, though limited in surviving fragments, garnered attention from notable figures like Aristotle who quoted him. Through his writings, Phocylides contributed to the philosophical discourse of his time by emphasizing the importance of moral values over material possessions.

Recaizade Mahmud Ekrem was an Ottoman civil servant, writer, literary critic, and intellectual known for his apolitical views. He wrote poems, dramas, and novels, incorporating European literary theories. Ekrem held various official positions, including at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He was a teacher who created his teaching material and conducted literary scientific work. Ekrem was part of the Sultan's court circle and had close relationships with influential figures like Namık Kemal and Abdülhak Hâmid Tarhan. He founded the renowned magazine Servet-i Fünun, focusing on promoting Turkish literature and nurturing literary generations.

İlhan Berk was a prominent Turkish poet known for his significant contributions to the postmodern movement in Turkish poetry, specifically the "İkinci Yeni" or "The second new generation." His innovative and influential work positioned him as a leading figure in Turkish literary circles. Berk's professional life was characterized by his exploration of new poetic forms, themes, and styles, which challenged traditional conventions and pushed the boundaries of Turkish poetry. His impact on the literary landscape continues to be felt, cementing his legacy as a pioneering poet.

Necati Cumalı was a prolific Turkish writer known for his works in various genres including novels, short-stories, essays, and poetry. He made significant contributions to Turkish literature with his insightful observations and unique storytelling style. Cumalı's writing often reflected on the complexities of human nature and societal issues, earning him recognition as a prominent literary figure in Turkey. Through his works, he explored themes of identity, cultural heritage, and the impact of historical events on individuals and communities, leaving a lasting legacy in Turkish literature.

Abdülhak Hâmid Tarhan was an influential figure in early 20th-century Ottoman literature, known for his contributions as a playwright and poet. He played a significant role in shaping the Turkish Romantic period and was recognized as one of the leading lights of the era. Referred to as "Şair-i Azam" (The Grand Poet) and "Dahi-i Azam" (The Grand Genius) in Turkish literature, his work showcased his talent, creativity, and profound understanding of the artistic and cultural landscape of his time.

John Mauropous was a prominent figure in the Eastern Roman Empire during the 11th century. He was known for his talent as a poet, hymnographer, and author of letters and orations. His works showcased his deep knowledge of literature and his ability to craft eloquent and moving pieces. Mauropous's professional life was marked by his contributions to the cultural and literary landscape of his time, leaving a lasting impact on the artistic and intellectual world of the Byzantine Empire.

George of Pisidia, a Byzantine poet, made significant contributions to Byzantine literature in the 7th century AD. Born in Pisidia, his work played a crucial role in shaping the main features of Byzantine poetry. Regarded as an important figure in early Byzantine literature, George's poetic creations were influential and helped define the style and essence of the era's literary works. Through his writings, he left a lasting impact on the development and evolution of Byzantine poetry during his time.

John Geometres began his professional life as a commander of the guards at the Byzantine court before transitioning into a role as a priest. He rose to prominence as a literary figure during the Macedonian Renaissance, focusing his writings predominantly on politics and religion. Geometres was known for his extensive body of work, including numerous epigrams and hymns dedicated to the Virgin Mary. His contributions to Byzantine literature and his dedication to religious themes solidified his legacy as a respected poet and writer of his time.

Manuel Philes, a Byzantine poet from Ephesus, was known for being the most prolific author of the late Byzantine period. His professional life was marked by a dedication to writing poetry that captured the essence of his time and culture. Philes's work showcased his talent for crafting intricate verses that resonated with readers, earning him a reputation as a significant literary figure in Byzantine literature. Through his writings, Philes left a lasting impact on the poetic landscape of his era.

Abū Bakr Muḥammad ibn Yaḥyā al-Ṣūlī was a renowned Turkic scholar and court companion to three Abbāsid caliphs. He served as a tutor to Caliph al-Radi and was known for his expertise in various fields, including writing, editing, poetry, and chess. Described as "of manly bearing" by his contemporary biographer, he authored several notable books, with Kitāb Al-Awrāq and Kitāb al-Shiṭranj being among his most famous works. Abu Bakr bin Yahya al-Suli's professional life was marked by scholarly pursuits and close associations with the caliphs.

Alexandros Soutsos was a Greek poet who founded the Greek Romantic school of poetry. He wrote poems to encourage the insurgents during the Greek Revolution and studied in Chios before moving to Paris, where he was influenced by French liberal philosophies. His major work of prose was "The Exile" and he admired Lord Byron, trying to emulate him in his poem "The Wanderer." Soutsos' works played a role in developing liberal thought in the young Greek monarchy, despite not achieving international success.

Taceddin Ahmedi, an Ottoman poet, studied in Cairo and visited the court of Bayezid I. He attended the Battle of Ankara and composed a qasida to Timur. His work, the Iskendername, dedicated to Süleyman Çelebi, is the earliest surviving Ottoman historiography and Turkish rendition of the Alexander Romance. Modeled after Neẓāmī's Iskandarnameh, the Iskendername contains over 8,000 couplets discussing philosophy, theology, and history. Ahmedi later served Mehmed I until his death in 1413.