Living (Book)

Living is a work composed of Cahit Zarifoğlu’s diaries. The book contains various observations on his personal life thoughts and the era in which he lived. It is regarded as one of the significant texts in modern Turkish literature with autobiographical qualities.

Subject of the Book

Living is a compilation of daily notes written by Cahit Zarifoğlu from the 1960s to the 1980s. The work includes memories observations on social and political developments expressions about family life and personal emotions. In the book Zarifoğlu’s personal beliefs intellectual world and literary approach are presented in diary form.

Content and Themes

• Personal Observations: Zarifoğlu expresses his personal feelings and mental states in his diaries.
• Belief: References to Islamic values and religious perspectives appear at various points in the diaries.
• Concept of Art: The author articulates his thoughts on poetry and art in various sections.
• Social Evaluations: The book includes assessments of certain cultural and social aspects of the period.
• Political Climate of the Era: The book touches on some political events in Turkey during the 1970s and 1980s.

Stylistic Features

Zarifoğlu’s language although rooted in the diary format occasionally acquires a poetic structure. The narration is simple and direct yet carries intellectual depth. Some sections unfold in the form of interior monologue.