Poet Ahmet Telli's Funeral Program Announced: Ceremony to Be Held in Ankara

The Turkish literary world mourns the loss of acclaimed poet Ahmet Telli, a prominent voice in socially realistic poetry. Telli, celebrated for his unique ability to weave together themes of sorrow, defiance, love, and resistance, will be honored with a memorial service in Ankara.

The service is scheduled for tomorrow at 11:00 AM at the Chamber of Civil Engineers building on Necatibey Street. Following the midday prayer, his funeral will take place at Karşıyaka Cemetery.

Telli, born in 1946, began his career as a village teacher after completing his education. He later served as a Turkish and literature teacher in various locations before being detained and dismissed from his post during a period of martial law in 1981. After legal proceedings, he transitioned to publishing, editing, and bookselling. He was reinstated as a teacher by court order in 1993 before eventually retiring.

His prolific career began with his first poem published in 1961. Telli authored numerous works, including "Yangın Yılları," "Hüznün İsyan Olur," and "Dövüşen Anlatsın." His contributions to Turkish poetry were recognized with multiple accolades, such as the Ömer Faruk Toprak Poetry Award and the PEN Turkey Poetry Award, leaving behind a significant legacy.