Yoksulluk Kitabı (The Book of Poverty) is a work of a social and in-depth essayistic nature, authored by Mustafa Kutlu, one of the prominent figures of Turkish storytelling. Published by Dergâh Publications as part of its "Turkish Literature" series, the book focuses on the theme of "poverty," presenting a significant call and social critique aimed at various segments of society. First published in March 2004, the 192-page work reached its 14th edition as of May 2025.

Content and Thematic Structure

“Yoksulluk Kitabı” addresses the different dimensions of poverty as a social phenomenon. In this text, Mustafa Kutlu directly addresses various segments of society: the healthy, the wealthy, those whose affairs are in order, the powerful, office-holders, the rich, politicians, scientists, and those who perform their religious rituals. He reminds them that, despite their positions of prosperity and power, "winter is coming and the poor are waiting for them." This call constitutes a critique not only of material poverty but also of social indifference and the weakening of human relations.

The book treats poverty not merely as an economic problem but also as a moral, conscientious, and social one. The author invites the reader not to remain indifferent in the face of poverty, but to take responsibility and to empathize. Mustafa Kutlu's observations and social analyses give the work the character of a reference text that prompts reflection on current social issues, moving it beyond the scope of a story or essay. The work aims to increase social awareness, revive the spirit of solidarity, and serve as a reminder of individual and collective responsibilities in the fight against poverty.

Language and Style

The language and style in Mustafa Kutlu's “Yoksulluk Kitabı” reflect the author's distinctive, intense, and thought-provoking narrative manner. While possessing literary depth, the text aims to convey its social message directly and effectively. A language enriched with short and striking sentences, ironic expressions, and strong metaphors is used. In addressing the reader, the author at times adopts an interrogative and cautionary tone, which strengthens the social criticism dimension of the work. The text does not contain any promotional or laudatory language; instead, the reality of poverty is presented from a descriptive and objective point of view. The book is a literary text that prompts the reader to think, to question, and to confront their personal conscience.

The Author's Position and the Significance of the Work

Mustafa Kutlu is one of the leading representatives of modern Turkish storytelling. In his works, he generally treats social issues, traditional values, the problems brought by modernization, and the depths of the human soul. “Yoksulluk Kitabı” is one of the works that most clearly reveals the author's social awareness and critical perspective. The book opens a discussion on not only the economic but also the moral and human dimensions of the phenomenon of poverty by looking at it from a different perspective. It constitutes an example in Turkish literature of treating social issues in a literary manner.