Nietzsche chose philosophy after failure in Turkish poetry, expert claims

An Ottoman poetry expert has claimed that German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche only chose to focus on philosophy after failing in his bid to become an Ottoman poetry-inspired writer.

Hayati ?nanç, who is well-known in Turkey as an expert on classical Turkish poetry, said Nietzsche came to the conclusion that he could not become a poet after studying two 17th century Turkish poets Naili and Abi.

"Nietzsche studied two great Turkish poets, Naili and Abi. He then concluded that he could not become a poet and was obliged to become a philosopher instead," ?nanç said.

"So we can almost say that what made Nietzsche a philosopher was Ottoman poetry," he added.

?nanç also claimed that Nietzsche said the Ottomans were closest to "the center of truth" and praised Ottoman poetry as "unique."

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