The Fisherman of Halicarnassus: The Story of Bodrum and the Passion for the Sea

One of the most unforgettable figures in Turkish literature, Musa Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı, known as the Fisherman of Halicarnassus, introduced Bodrum to the literary world and played a significant role in making this beautiful town globally renowned. Known as the man who immortalized Bodrum, the Fisherman of Halicarnassus was not just a writer but also a painter, gardener, historian, and guide who led a multifaceted life. Let’s embark on a journey through his story that flows from Bodrum to the world.

The Origins and Early Life of the Fisherman of Halicarnassus

Cevat Şakir was born on April 17, 1890, on the island of Crete into a distinguished Turkmen family. His father, diplomat and historian Şakir Pasha, and his mother, İsmet Hanım, who had a passion for painting, deeply influenced Cevat Şakir’s life. Growing up in Athens, Büyükada, and Istanbul, he was exposed to diverse cultures and gained a rich cultural heritage.

In 1908, he graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Modern History. He later attended the Academy of Fine Arts in Italy, where he studied painting and married an Italian model, Agnesia Kafiera. Upon returning to Turkey, he worked as a cartoonist and writer, creating illustrations for various magazines and earning recognition as the artist behind Turkey’s first color magazine cover.

A Tragic Event and a Life-Changing Exile

A pivotal moment in Cevat Şakir’s life was the tragic death of his father during an altercation in 1914. This incident profoundly affected him, leading to a 14-year prison sentence, of which he served seven years. These years of imprisonment solidified his love for writing, and he emerged more determined to make his mark.

In 1925, an article he wrote led to his trial at the Independence Tribunal, resulting in a three-year exile to Bodrum. This exile became a turning point in his life. Enchanted by Bodrum’s pristine nature and rich culture, Cevat Şakir fell in love with the small fishing town. He adopted the pen name Fisherman of Halicarnassus, inspired by the ancient name of Bodrum, Halicarnassus.

A Life in Bodrum

Cevat Şakir’s love for Bodrum inspired him to build his life there. He engaged in various trades, including fishing, gardening, sponge diving, and guiding. But his true passion lay in writing and introducing Bodrum’s beauty to the world. As a gardener, he planted seeds from abroad, turning Bodrum into a greener and more vibrant place.

He was instrumental in the creation of the Blue Voyage concept, a sailing and travel movement through the pristine coves of the Aegean. Alongside Azra Erhat and Sabahattin Eyüboğlu, he championed the Blue Anatolia movement, emphasizing Anatolia’s historical and cultural significance and its impact on Western civilization.

His Literary Contributions and Writing Style

Cevat Şakir developed a unique literary style centered on the sea, nature, and people. His works often depicted fishermen, sponge divers, and coastal villagers as wise, compassionate, and courageous characters, contrasting them with land-dwellers portrayed as greedy or oppressive.

His passion for the sea shone through in his works like "Aganta Burina Burinata", "Turgut Reis", and "The Blue Exile." Through poetic and lyrical prose, he transformed nature into a living, breathing character in his stories, weaving a unique connection between humans and the sea.

Later Years and Final Wishes

In 1947, Cevat Şakir moved to İzmir for his children’s education. Although he worked as a journalist and guide, his heart remained in Bodrum. He frequently returned to visit the trees he had planted and reconnect with the town’s people.

He passed away in İzmir on October 13, 1973, but his final wish was to be buried in Bodrum. His grave on Türbe Hill reflects his deep connection to the town and its culture.

Bodrum and the Fisherman of Halicarnassus

Cevat Şakir’s contributions to Bodrum extended beyond literature. He played a vital role in promoting tourism and transforming Bodrum into a cultural and historical hub. His passion for the town inspired countless others to appreciate its beauty and history.

“Do not think you will leave Bodrum as you came; others before you have done the same, leaving their hearts and minds behind.”
These words by the Fisherman of Halicarnassus beautifully capture his love for Bodrum and the town’s enchanting allure