Ilkyaz is a monthly, literary platform, which features works from writers in Turkey who are under the age of 35 and whose voices are rarely heard. The publication aims to amplify the voice and reach of such writers by showcasing on a monthly basis three selected writers’ poetry or prose.
June 13, 2019Ilkyaz is a monthly, literary platform, which features works from writers in Turkey who are under the age of 35 and whose voices are rarely heard. The publication aims to amplify the voice and reach of such writers by showcasing on a monthly basis three selected writers’ poetry or prose.
Since launching in December 2018, Ilkyaz – which means early Spring – has partnered with a different PEN Centre every month to ensure that the profiled works of the three selected writers, is distributed as widely as possible both in Turkey and beyond.
“This to us is a perfect way to non-politically engage with the ensuing crackdown on free expression in Turkey whilst also helping support its future writers and thus members of PEN, acquainting and inducting them to the rest of the network and audiences,”
Ege Dündar, Turkey advisor to PEN International and founder of Ilkyaz.
Ilkyaz has worked with Norwegian PEN, German PEN, PEN Flanders and PEN South Africa.
Scottish PEN is proud and humbled to partner with and support the worthy cause of Ilkyaz this month.
The following are the three writers featured:
A biography for each, along with their featured writing, is provided in separate articles on the Scottish PEN website.
Ege Dündar encourages readers to reach out to the writers, should they feel moved to do so. Alternatively, if one of the pieces published here or previously on Ilkyaz sparks a creative response, you may apply for an opportunity to collaborate with the writer of your choice.
“Anything from short films to animations, music to paintings are welcome. We will introduce the artist to the young writer in Turkey online. The collaboration will then feature on our website and at events across Turkey,” says Dündar. The collaborators will also receive £50 each.
Visit the Ilkyaz website to see the work of previously featured writers.
Also, stay tuned to the upcoming issue of PENnings, Dignity for these pieces of work being published alongside Scottish PEN members and writers living in Scotland from elsewhere.