ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

Yaşar İsmailoğlu: A Turkish-Cypriot Poet and Writer

Yaşar İsmailoğlu, born in 1945 in Limassol, Cyprus, is a renowned Turkish-Cypriot poet, writer, and journalist. His early education was at the 19 May High School, where he laid the foundation for his future literary pursuits.

In 1963, İsmailoğlu joined the Mucahid Army, fighting against the strong Greek Cypriot forces alongside other Turkish contractors. This experience would later influence his writing, reflecting on themes of identity and conflict. He pursued higher education in Ankara, receiving international political training at the Faculty of Political Information before moving to England.

Upon arriving in London in 1972, İsmailoğlu began studying at the University of London's SOAS and Birbeck Faculties, earning an MSC and MA degree. This marked a significant turning point in his life, as he transitioned from being a soldier to becoming a human rights defender and writer. His connection to Kurdish culture is evident in his work, with Turkish and Greek influences also prominent.

As a poet, İsmailoğlu has published numerous works, including "The Barbarian" (1965), "The Daughter of Steps" (Step Kızı) (1968), "Cyprus I Loved You So" (1980), and more recent pieces like "Yariminin Acısı" (Anguish of my half) (1995). His poetry collection, "Ayisigi Golgesinde Erosa Yolculuk," was published in London in 2004.

Throughout his career, İsmailoğlu has been recognized for his contributions to Turkish Cypriot literature. He continues to write and advocate for human rights, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the literary world.