Turkish language and physical education teacher, as well as acclaimed poet, Haşim Semerci has published his latest poetry collection, “Vatan Neresi?” (“Where is the Homeland?”), continuing his literary exploration of the concept of homeland.
The book was edited by teacher Şefika Refik from Kostino Village in Kardzhali. The cover photograph was provided by renowned painter Kamber Kamber from Momchilgrad, while the illustrations were created by Semerci’s former student Nalan Şenol.
The collection revolves around the question of “homeland,” capturing reflections on the meaning of one’s true roots. T
hrough lyrical expression, Semerci examines the perspectives of people living in the Rhodope Mountains, emphasizing that the land where a person is born and raised forms their authentic homeland.
“Homeland is not merely a geographic location but the land that shapes one’s identity and memories,” Semerci said in a statement.
Born in 1959 in Sedefche Village, part of Momchilgrad, Semerci studied Bulgarian, French, and physical education at the Kardzhali Teacher Institute, and later pursued Bulgarian and Turkish studies at Plovdiv University. He began his teaching career in the villages of Chiftlik and Ohlovets , spending the last 14 years teaching Turkish language and physical education in Dzhebel.
“Vatan Neresi?” is Semerci’s second poetry collection. His earlier book, “Bizim Buralarda”, also focused on the theme of homeland. An official launch and presentation of the new work are scheduled in the coming weeks.
