One of the most influential Turkish writers of the 20th century, Leyl Erbil was an innovative literary stylist who tackled issues at the heart of what it means to be human, in mind and body. Erbil ventured where few writers dared to tread, turning her lens to the tides of social norms and the shaping of identities, focusing intently on emotional conflict, and plumbing the depths of history and psyche. In 2002 and 2004 Erbil was nominated as candidate for the Nobel Literature Prize by Turkey PEN. She died in Istanbul in 2013.
"“How odd that a writer who first started making her mark in 1956 should remain a pioneer still today… How odd that, even after half a century, no writer capable of surpassing her has yet appeared."" ––Mahmut Temisyurek, award-winning poet “ Leylâ Erbil is a consummate literary artist.” ––Turkish National Committee for UNESCO ""Complex but fascinating."" ––The Modern Novel"