Existential themes in Attila Ilhan's novels

Existentialism is a philosophical thought that emerged in France after World War II, has its roots in Kierkegaard and even the pre-Socratic period, and focuses on the problem of existence of the individual. The reason why existentialism cannot be defined as a philosophical movement is that many thinkers associated with existentialism (Camus, Jaspers, Heidegger, Kierkegaard, etc.) do not see themselves as existentialists, look at the same concepts from different perspectives, and approach religion. The main reason why these names are gathered under the roof of existentialism is their philosophical views that center on humans and prioritize responsibility. Existential themes mean that themes and concepts belonging to existential thought are processed in a literary work. Existential themes are generally used to explain the multi-layered and ambiguous essence of humans. Because according to existentialism; people are not born with an essence determined by nature; they create their own essence with their existence and choices. Based on this basic view; In literary texts constructed around existential themes, concepts such as responsibility, choice, and nausea are handled through characters. Attilâ Ilhan is an artist known as a poet and novelist in Turkish literature. His contact with existentialism occurs during his travels to France. Based on the information he acquired, in his first three novels, he examines the problem of alienation of Turkish intellectuals from society. He narrates the types of intellectuals he creates around existential crises and generally plans them as the opposite of his own ideal human types. The ideal type of intellectual he advocates is intertwined with society and responsible. In this respect, alienated intellectuals have the characteristics of anti-heroes. These anti-heroes are examined through existential concepts such as nausea, responsibility, and the search for meaning. Within the scope of the study; Attilâ Ilhan's first three novels, in which he deals with the problem of intellectuals, will be examined and existential themes will be sought. The themes found will be examined in the context of the meaning they add to the text and the author's purpose, and their importance for Turkish literature will be explained. Keywords: Existentialism, Attilâ İlhan, Existential themes, Novel.