Rediscovery of Lost Works by Recep Vahyi in Turkish Literature
Renowned writer Recep Vahyi, known for his significant contributions to Turkish literature during the "Middle Generation" period, has reemerged in the academic realm with a remarkable discovery.
The Rediscovered Manuscripts
Recently, a set of manuscripts authored by Vahyi himself 117 years ago, including "Defter-i Tesvidat" and "Ihtisasat," resurfaced at an auction, all thanks to the diligent efforts of Ilyas Kayaokay, a scholar from Munzur University.
Ilyas Kayaokay's Dedication
Kayaokay, an expert in Ottoman-era manuscripts, has dedicated over a decade to sourcing handwritten manuscripts and historical artifacts from auctions and antique bookstores, constantly expanding his collection despite financial constraints.
Significance of Vahyi's Works
Acquiring Vahyi's manuscripts marks a significant milestone for Kayaokay's collection, shedding new light on Vahyi's role in shaping Turkish literature and serving as a vital link between literary movements.
Recep Vahyi's Literary Legacy
Vahyi, a key figure in the "Middle Generation," significantly influenced Turkish poetry and was a pioneer in translating Russian literary works into Turkish, leaving a lasting impact on the literary landscape.
Life and Legacy of Recep Vahyi
Born in Crete in 1867, Vahyi led a distinguished military career, reaching the rank of colonel before retiring in 1914. Despite a reclusive life after retirement, he left behind a rich literary legacy upon his passing in 1923.
Importance of Rediscovering Unpublished Works
Kayaokay highlighted the significance of resurrecting Vahyi's unpublished works, which had been mentioned in various literary sources but had been lost for over a century, emphasizing the need to preserve such cultural treasures for future generations.
Preservation Efforts and Future Plans
With plans to compile Vahyi's works into a comprehensive volume, Kayaokay aims to safeguard these invaluable literary pieces and calls for governmental support in establishing measures to protect and conserve such cultural heritage.
