Friday, March 29, 2019

ISTANBUL: MEMORIES AND THE CITY -- 21


BY ORHAN PAMUK


In chapter 10, Pamuk explains the ambiguities of huzun, the Turkish term for melancholy. 

This single word provides a fascinating window into the culture and history of Istanbul, and even more so, into the author's memories of growing up amid the ruined glory of the Ottoman Empire. 

Pamuk (Snow, 2004) is blessed with the ability to recall not only the events of his childhood with clarity but also images and feelings; and the interplay of then-Orhan's naivete with now-Orhan's nuancing is truly remarkable.

--Booklist

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