I think it's horrible that we Turks are always seen under the aspect of Islam first. I am constantly asked about religion, and almost always with a negative undercurrent that makes me furious.

Well, on the one hand the Turks have the legitimate need to defend their national dignity - and this includes being recognized as a part of the west and Europe.

Nationalism stems from catastrophes, whether they are caused by earthquakes or lost wars.

Mankind's greatest error, the biggest deception of the past thousand years is this: to confuse poverty with stupidity.

We live but for a short time, we see but very little, and we know almost nothing; so, at least, let's do some dreaming. Have yourself a very good Sunday, my dear readers.

When something explosive is kept hidden away, a tension builds within that must ultimately be released.

True literature is more than just a story someone has told. It must provide the reader with the essence of the world on a moral, philosophical and emotional level.