Kenan Orhan tackles themes of exile, fear and memory

Turkish-American writer Kenan Orhan dives deep into the themes of exile, fear, and memory in his work. A master of creative writing, Orhan holds an MFA from Emerson College and has taught at the Kansas City Art Institute. His debut collection of short stories, "I Am My Country and Other Stories" (2023), garnered him a shortlist for the PEN/Robert W. Bingham Prize, and his upcoming novel, "The Renovation," is a contender for the Booker Prize.

Orhan uses fiction as a tool to navigate the complexities of place and identity, often exploring the shifting landscape of memory. Writing demands meticulous attention to detail, allowing Orhan to craft authentic characters and delve into larger truths.

For Orhan, writing serves as a bridge between Türkiye and his own roots. He aims to remain empathetic and open to the characters he creates, stepping into their roles and living their lives vicariously. Through his storytelling, Orhan hopes to preserve the bond with Türkiye and its people.

One of Orhan's stories, "Dilara," explores the themes of memory loss and exile. The protagonist, Dilara, grapples with her father's Alzheimer's disease and her own sense of identity while living in exile. The unexpected connection Dilara forms with female prisoners in "Silivri" prison reshapes her understanding of isolation, companionship, and recognition. Through this experience, Orhan highlights the power of fiction to transcend boundaries and foster empathy among readers.