A prominent figure of the İkinci Yeni poetry movement, this author developed a distinctive world of imagery and a stark, unadorned style. His poems often weave profound sorrow and human tragedy with sharp irony, later incorporating a strong social conscience from the 1970s onwards. Initially known for a more closed poetic approach, his work evolved to sensitively address societal issues without compromising artistic depth. Beyond his acclaimed verse, he also made significant contributions as a prolific translator of international literature.
A masterpiece of Russian prose, Lermontov's only novel was influential for many later 19th century authors, including Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, and Chekhov. Lermotov's hero, Pechorin, is a dangerous man, Byronic in his wasted gifts and his cynicism, and desperate for any kind of action that will stave off boredom. In five linked episodes, Lermontov builds up a portrait of a man caught in and expressing the sickness of his times.