Lost Word: A Journey Through the Turkish Language

By Oya Baydar

A Powerful and Moving Memoir of Language, Identity, and Exile

In her powerful and moving memoir, Lost Word, Oya Baydar takes readers on a journey through the Turkish language, exploring its beauty, its power, and its role in her own life. Baydar, a renowned Turkish writer and activist, was forced into exile in Germany in the 1980s due to her political beliefs. In exile, she found herself struggling to maintain her connection to her native language and culture. Lost Word is a testament to the power of language and its ability to shape our identities and our lives.

A Journey Through Language

Baydar's journey through the Turkish language begins in her childhood, when she was first introduced to the beauty and complexity of her native tongue. She describes the joy of learning new words and the thrill of discovering the power of language to express her thoughts and feelings. As she grew older, Baydar became increasingly aware of the political and social power of language. She saw how language could be used to oppress and control, but she also saw how it could be used to resist and fight for change.

Exile and the Loss of Language

When Baydar was forced into exile, she found herself cut off from her native language and culture. She struggled to find the words to express herself in German, and she felt a deep sense of loss and alienation. In Lost Word, Baydar explores the profound impact of exile on her sense of self and her relationship to her native language. She writes about the challenges of living in a foreign country, the difficulties of communicating with people who don't share your language, and the pain of losing touch with your roots.

The Power of Language

Despite the challenges she faced in exile, Baydar never gave up on her love of the Turkish language. She continued to write in Turkish, and she became a powerful voice for freedom of expression and human rights. In Lost Word, Baydar celebrates the power of language to resist oppression, to build bridges between cultures, and to create change. She argues that language is not just a tool for communication, but a vital part of our identity and our humanity.

A Must-Read for Anyone Interested in Language, Identity, and Exile

Lost Word is a powerful and moving memoir that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the power of language or the pain of losing touch with their native tongue. Baydar's journey through the Turkish language is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of words.

Praise for Lost Word

"A powerful and moving memoir that explores the complex relationship between language, identity, and exile. Baydar's writing is lyrical and evocative, and her story is both heartbreaking and inspiring." — The New York Times

"A must-read for anyone interested in language, identity, and the power of words. Baydar's memoir is a powerful reminder of the importance of freedom of expression and the resilience of the human spirit." — The Guardian

"A beautifully written and deeply moving account of one woman's journey through language and exile. Baydar's memoir is a testament to the power of language to shape our lives and our identities." — The Washington Post