Turkish Author Selçuk Altun at European Writers Festival

Yunus Emre Institute London is thrilled to announce two exclusive literary events featuring celebrated Turkish author Selçuk Altun. As a proud supporter of the European Writers' Festival, these events, hosted in partnership with Turkish Airlines and in collaboration with Saqi Books, are set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the British Library, and on May 20, 2024, at the Yunus Emre Institute. The first event, part of the European Writers' Festival organized by EUNIC, will see Altun representing Türkiye. He will discuss the richness and diversity of Turkish literature through his latest novel, "Farewell Fountain Street." This session provides a unique opportunity for attendees to delve into the vibrant literary scene in Türkiye and its influence on global literature.

The second event, an intimate setting with the author, promises an in-depth look into the creation of “Farewell Fountain Street.” Altun will explore the intricacies of his work, reveal the inspiration behind its captivating title, “Why Godot Wouldn’t Come,” and guide attendees through the themes and characters that bring his novel to life. This event offers a rare chance to hear directly from the author about his writing journey, his creative process, and the unique messages that shape his narrative. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Selçuk Altun and get a discounted copy of “Farewell Fountain Street” personally signed. 

Altun's prose has been described by John Ashbery as having a 'dreamlike urgency,' and his work has been praised by Jason Goodwin as a 'tantalizing thriller.' "Farewell Fountain Street" explores the story of Ziya Bey, an Ottoman aristocrat with six months to live, and Artvin, a disillusioned professor hired to assist him. As the two men delve into their pasts, they uncover dark secrets and find themselves drawn into a spiral of violence.

These events promise to be as engaging as they are enlightening—perfect for literature lovers, publishers, and anyone interested in Turkish culture. Don’t miss this chance to dive into the world of one of Turkey’s most acclaimed writers and enjoy a night of conversation, inspiration, and literary exploration. 

About the Book 

Ziya Bey has six months left to live. From his mansion on Farewell Fountain Street, the Ottoman aristocrat plans to tie up some questionable business affairs and say goodbye to the people he cherishes. He hires Artvin, a disillusioned professor with a troubled past, to assist him. Intrigued by his employer’s mysterious household, Artvin spends the days uncovering Ziya Bey’s turbulent life story. The two men become bound together as they reveal dark elements from their pasts. But when Ziya Bey releases Artvin from his duties sooner than expected, Artvin inherits a spiral of violence he cannot control. In this gripping ride through the streets of Istanbul, two men learn one another’s secrets. But can either of them learn to live with themselves? 

About the Author

Selçuk Altun was born in Savsat-Artvin, Turkey in 1950. A retired banking executive, bibliophile and book collector, Altun served as chairman of a major publishing house until his retirement in 2004. He is the author of 8 novels, 2 novellas and 5 essay collections. He won the prestigious literary award Sedat Simavi Edebiyat Ödülü in 2022 with “Kitap İçin – 5” (For the Love of Books -5). His novel “The Sultan of Byzantium” has been translated into 15 languages. He writes for two periodicals Gösteri and OT. He lives and mostly reads in Istanbul.  For more information about upcoming events and initiatives, please visit yeelondon.org.uk