İnci Asena (born 1948) is a Turkish poet, translator, and publisher. She began her literary career in the 1970s and has since published multiple collections of poetry that explore themes of personal identity, nature, and urban life. In addition to her own poetic work, Asena has contributed translations of French and English literature into Turkish, facilitating cross‑cultural literary exchange. She is also the founder of a small independent publishing house, which has issued works by emerging Turkish authors and poets.
Career
- Poetry: Asena’s first poetry collection, Karanlıkta Ay, was released in 1975 and received attention for its lyrical style and introspective tone. Subsequent collections include Yaz Gecesi (1982), Deniz Kıyısında (1990), and Rüzgârın Şarkısı (2001).
- Translation: She has translated several notable works from French and English, including poems by Paul Éluard and short stories by James Baldwin, bringing these authors to a Turkish readership.
- Publishing: In 1995 Asena established the independent press İnci Yayınları, which focuses on poetry, short fiction, and literary essays. The house is recognized for promoting avant‑garde and experimental writers within Turkey’s contemporary literary scene.
Recognition
Asena’s contributions to Turkish literature have been acknowledged through invitations to literary festivals, readings, and panels both in Turkey and abroad. She has also been featured in anthologies of modern Turkish poetry.
Personal life
Born in Istanbul, Asena studied French literature at Istanbul University before pursuing a career in writing and translation. She remains active in literary circles and continues to mentor younger poets and translators.
