Yunus Emre InstituteOn 17 October 2024, Yunus Emre Enstitüsü – London welcomed an evening steeped in the rich and complex history of the Ottoman Empire, as, a member of the Ottoman Imperial family, launched her new book, A Farewell to Imperial Istanbul. The event attracted history enthusiasts and literature lovers alike, eager to hear Osmanoğlu’s reflections on the Ottoman Empire and her personal connection to its legacy.
During the talk, Osmanoğlu shared her deeply personal creative journey, shedding light on the motivations and inspirations that shaped her latest work. Her narrative was more than a historical recount; it was an intimate exploration of memory, family, and the passage of time. The author offered insights into the challenges of writing a book so closely tied to her own heritage while navigating the broader themes of empire, loss, and change. With authenticity and grace, she drew the audience into the final days of Imperial Istanbul, a city on the brink of transformation.
The audience was visibly moved by Osmanoğlu’s reflections, as she spoke not only of the Ottoman Empire’s grandeur but of the profound human stories intertwined with its fall. Her anecdotes, both personal and historical, brought a fresh perspective to familiar narratives of the Ottoman legacy, allowing listeners to see the empire through the eyes of someone deeply connected to its lineage.
Following the discussion, attendees had the opportunity to meet Osmanoğlu, share their thoughts, and have their copies of A Farewell to Imperial Istanbul signed by the author. The book, described as “devastatingly beautiful and endlessly evocative” by journalist Imran Mulla, was available for purchase at the event, with many readers eager to take home a piece of this evocative and carefully crafted historical narrative.
This event, part of the Arts and Culture Lecture Series, provided not just a window into Ottoman history but an opportunity to engage with the personal side of that history through Ayşe Osmanoğlu’s eyes. The evening ended with lively conversations, as attendees continued to reflect on the themes explored in the talk and the lasting impact of the Ottoman Empire on Istanbul and beyond.
For those who missed the event, can watch the recording on Yunus Emre Institute London’s Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/yeelondra