Book Launch & Signing: My Father Cemil Meriç with Ümit Meriç

Yunus Emre Institute London Presents the book launch & signing of My Father Cemil Meriç: A Turkish Intellectual of the 20th Century by the acclaimed author Ümit Meriç.

On the 7th of May 2024, at 7 PM, join us for an evening of discovery and homage to Cemil Meriç, a luminary whose writings have illuminated the corridors of Turkish thought. His daughter, Ümit Meriç, brings to life his enduring legacy through her book, which we are proud to launch and celebrate. Guiding us through the evening’s narrative is John Shakespeare Dyson, whose translation has opened a window for English-speaking audiences.

“Words are my shadow reflected in the water,’ he said. ‘I cannot stroke them or kiss them. Words are an invitation that is pleasant to receive. They are a bridge linking one heart to another, a staircase leading from century to century. Words are the stream in which I view myself. Words have no end; they are annihilation!”
– Cemil Meriç

Cemil Meriç’s reflections on words as bridges between hearts and epochs capture the essence of his intellectual journey. His daughter, Ümit Meriç, continues this journey, offering her own perspectives as a scholar and as the keeper of her father’s flame.

Cemil Meriç, a thinker ahead of his time, challenged prevailing ideologies and enriched Turkish literature with his translations and original works. His daughter, Ümit Meriç, a respected sociologist, has captured the essence of her father’s intellectual spirit in this biography, offering readers a chance to grasp the depth of his influence on Turkish culture and politics.

The translated work, “My Father Cemil Meriç: A Turkish Intellectual of the 20th Century,” is a tribute to a man whose life was a tapestry of literature, philosophy, and social critique.

The evening promises to be a profound exploration into the life and works of Cemil Meriç, whose philosophical and literary contributions have shaped the contours of Turkish intellectualism.

The translated work, “My Father Cemil Meriç: A Turkish Intellectual of the 20th Century,” is a tribute to a man whose life was a tapestry of literature, philosophy, and social critique. This special evening will not only unveil the book but also offer it for purchase at a special discount, exclusively for attendees. A book signing session with the author will follow, providing a unique opportunity to connect with the minds behind the book.

Do not miss this unique opportunity to honour the legacy of a man whose thoughts continue to echo through the generations, inviting reflection, discussion, and a deeper understanding of the cultural and political landscape he influenced.

Admission is FREE but registration is ESSENTIAL via Eventbrite.

Note: The Turkish version of the event will also be held on 9 May at 7 PM.

This event forms part of the Arts & Culture Lecture Series organised by Yunus Emre Institute London since 2017.

IMPORTANT NOTES

Please note that this event is first come first served and may be overbooked. To avoid disappointment, please arrive early and secure your seat. If you have registered but are unable to attend, please cancel your ticket to allow others to join. Thank you for your cooperation.

Please be advised that filming and/or photography will be taking place at the event for the purposes of archiving, marketing, and all other publications. By entering this event, you consent to the Yunus Emre Institute taking photographs and videos and using them.