To commemorate the 123rd birthday of Nâzım Hikmet, Şişli Municipality has published a book titled “A Nâzım in Şişli.” The book focuses on the poet’s life in Şişli, delving into the region and period that left a profound impact on him. Additionally, a special event organized in collaboration with the Nâzım Hikmet Foundation will bring together notable figures from the world of literature and art on January 15 at the Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall.
A Tribute to Nâzım Hikmet in Şişli
Under the leadership of Şişli Mayor Resul Emrah Şahan, the book takes Nâzım Hikmet’s time in Şişli as a starting point. It examines the artistic atmosphere of the district during that era, its cultural transformation, and how these influences shaped the poet’s works. The book will be introduced during an event held on January 15, Nâzım Hikmet’s birthday, at the Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall.
The book chronologically explores the poet’s childhood and youth, focusing on his days in Nişantaşı, where he lived with his family. Designed by Dündar Hızal, with editing by Sibel Oral and Veysel Saltanoğlu, the book features contributions from Uğur Aktaş, Bahriye Çeri, Gökhan Akçura, and Sevdagül Kasap. It includes in-depth essays that examine Nâzım Hikmet’s various periods in Şişli.
The book also highlights Nâzım Hikmet’s time at Nişantaşı Sultanisi, his filmmaking career at İpek Film Studio in the 1930s, and his everyday life, productivity, and the socio-cultural dynamics of the era. It even details his frequent visits to Valikonağı Avenue and the home he shared with his wife Piraye, bringing these aspects of his life into the spotlight for the first time.
Nâzım Hikmet’s Cinematic Journey
“A Nâzım in Şişli” sheds light on the poet’s lesser-known cinematic career while revealing how the spirit of Şişli inspired his poetry. It portrays his early literary aspirations, the challenges of his era, and his experiences of poverty during the looming war years. While Nâzım Hikmet lived briefly in neighborhoods like Kadıköy, Cihangir, and Gümüşsuyu, the book emphasizes his deep connection to Nişantaşı and its artistic hubs.
The book also elaborates on his time at İpek Film, uncovering his contributions to cinema and his connection to Şişli’s vibrant cultural life. This significant work will be introduced to readers on January 15 at a commemorative event hosted by Şişli Municipality and the Nâzım Hikmet Foundation, featuring prominent literary and artistic figures.
A Special Program in Honor of Nâzım Hikmet
Hosted by Şişli Mayor Resul Emrah Şahan and Nâzım Hikmet Culture and Art Foundation President Rutkay Aziz, the event will begin at 8:00 PM, with an opening speech by Zeynep Oral, a board member of the foundation. Actor Altan Gördüm will present the program, which will include a recording of the late artist Genco Erkal reciting Nâzım Hikmet’s poem “Autobiography.” Renowned actors Halil Ergün, Tilbe Saran, and Selçuk Yöntem will also perform selected poems, while Levent Ülgen will stage the “Kartallı Kâzım” section from “Human Landscapes from My Country.”
The Mercan Selçuk Dance Ensemble will combine Nâzım Hikmet’s poetry with music and dance in a unique performance. The event will open and close with performances by the Private Taş College Choir, founded by the children of Tarık Akan. The evening will conclude with musical performances by Erdal Erzincan and Zuhal Olcay.
