Either Endure or Depart (Ya Tahammül Ya Sefer) is a novel written by Mustafa Kutlu, a prominent figure in Turkish literature, which deals with the fluctuations between an individual's beliefs, ideals, and life. The work describes the social and individual disintegrations shaped by references to recent Turkish history, as well as the turmoil and disappointments experienced over time by a group of idealists who set out with a sense of purpose.

Subject

The novel revolves around the story of four young men (Murat, Asım, Yunus, and Osman) who gather around the same faith and ideals in a dormitory converted from a madrasa. These young men embrace “the cause” with a sense of morality and responsibility that transcends material gain. Guided by the idea of “not conforming to life, but conforming life to the Truth,” they publish a magazine and generate ideas. Over time, their paths diverge, and each is swept into a different life. In this journey, only Murat remains faithful to his ideals. The others, as they rise within society, drift away from their true selves.

Theme

Themes such as idealism, pragmatism, intergenerational conflict, moral decay, moral reckoning, and disappointment are at the forefront of the work. The novel focuses on the difficulties of pursuing truth, the loneliness that requires endurance, and the escape routes, based on the motto “either endure or flee.”

Language and Narrative Features

In terms of narrative technique, the novel draws attention with its internal monologues, observer perspective, and simple, straightforward use of Turkish. It offers a wide range of intellectual depth regarding the inner worlds of the characters, their conflicts, and social changes.

Characters

Murat: The only character who remains true to his ideals. He publishes books on ideas but fails to achieve material success. He dies in poverty.

Asım Bey: Initially an idealistic activist, he eventually turns to an academic career and loses touch with his true self.

Yunus Bey: He was once a fellow activist; over time, he becomes a member of parliament and a minister. He lives a luxurious and ostentatious life with his wife Neslihan.

İlhan: Asım Bey's son. He admires his father's past ideals and despises his current state. He wants to return to the cause.

Veysel: İlhan's university friend. He acts with a sense of purpose, eventually opening a bookstore in the countryside and becoming involved in politics.

Fetanet Hanım: Asım Bey's wife. She is superficial and obsessed with appearances

Neslihan: Yunus Bey's wife. She is a traditional woman who submits to her husband but is unhappy.

Kerim: An orphaned child brought from the village who works with Murat. He works hard for the cause.