Necip Fazil Kisakurek was one of the most influential poets, novelists, and ideologues in modern Turkish history. Often referred to by the title "Üstad" (The Master), he left a profound mark on Turkish literature and the country's social and political thought. He was a master of the Turkish language, known for his powerful rhetoric and flawless use of the "hece" (syllabic) meter. He was a charismatic orator, traveling across Turkey to give lectures that inspired thousands of young people.
He studied philosophy at the Sorbonne in Paris. During this time, he lived a worldly, restless life. He gained fame as a "poet of the sidewalks", focusing on themes of existential dread, loneliness, and the human psyche. In 1934, he met the Sufi master Abdulhakim Arvasi. This encounter completely transformed him. He shifted his focus from individual existentialism to a life dedicated to Islamic activism and the defense of traditional Turkish-Islamic values.
Necip Fazil founded a magazine and an ideological movement called "Büyük Dogu". It was not just a publication but a manifesto for a new generation. He called for a return to Islamic roots as the only way for the Turkish nation to preserve its identity against what he saw as the hollow imitation of Western culture. His ideas have significantly influenced generations of Turkish conservative and nationalist politicians. Due to his outspoken criticism of the secular policies of the time and his call for an Islamic revival, he faced numerous lawsuits and spent several years in prison at different intervals.
His most famous collection in poetry is "Çile" (The Ordeal). His poem "Sakarya Türküsü" (The Song of Sakarya) is considered a masterpiece of nationalist and spiritual awakening. His theater plays, such as "Bir Adam Yaratmak" (To Create a Man) and "Reis Bey", explore deep psychological and moral crises, such as guilt, justice, and the existence of God.
Necip Fazil died on 25th of May, 1983, at the age of 79. He's buried in the Eyüp cemetery in Istanbul. The Necip Fazil Culture and Art Awards are held annually in his honor.