Kisakürek, Necip Fazıl
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: نجيب فاضل كصاكيريك (Najīb Fāḍil Kaṣākīrīk)
- Turkish: Necip Fazıl Kısakürek
Biography
Necip Fazıl Kısakürek (1904-1983) was a distinguished Turkish poet, playwright, essayist, and political thinker. Emerging as an indelible influence in Turkish literature, Kısakürek’s works are notable for their philosophical depth, particularly critiquing the perceived vacuity of humanism. His literary and ideological contributions are remembered through his periodical, The Great East (“Büyük Doğu”), which ran from 1943 to 1978.
Literary Contributions
Necip Fazıl’s literary legacy is constructed through his expressive poetry, compelling plays, and reflective essays. His work delves into the existential and metaphysical despair observed within modernity, presenting a counter-narrative that sought to reclaim religious and cultural identity amidst the wave of Western hegemony.
Political Ideology
Beyond his literary works, Kısakürek is remembered for his political philosophy. His periodical, Büyük Doğu, became an important platform for voicing his criticisms against Western humanism and its accompanying ideologies. Through this publication, Kısakürek argued for a reinstatement of Islamic values into the national and cultural consciousness of Turkey.
Influence and Legacy
Necip Fazıl Kısakürek left an indelible mark on Turkish intellectual and cultural history. His criticisms of the rapid westernization of Turkey and his advocacy for Islamic ethics continue to be subjects of scholarly discussion. His ideologically charged literature and essays spurred significant discourse on Turkey’s cultural and religious identity amidst modernization.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Kısakürek, Necip Fazıl. “Poetry and Political Writings.”
- Mardin, Şerif. Turkish Islam and Islamic Turkey.
- McCarthy, Justin. The Ottoman Peoples and the End of Empire.
- Hanioğlu, M. Şükrü. Atatürk: An Intellectual Biography.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Necip Fazıl Kısakürek stands out in the annals of Turkish literature not just for his artistic expression but also for his potent ideological stance. His examination of modernity’s shortcomings and his call for a return to Islamic values provide a critical lens that continues to inspire debates on culture, religion, and politics in Turkey.
Kısakürek’s legacy is multifaceted; he is both a cherished literary figure and a controversial political thinker. His work, while intrinsically tied to the Turkish context, engages with universal themes of existentialism, faith, and societal critique, ensuring his enduring relevance.
