In 1930, Veysel meets with Ahmet Kutsi Tecer. Poet but also politician, Ahmet will help Veysel get recognized for his art. Together, they founded an association for "the preservation of folk poets". An association that will, at the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Turkish Republic, give him the opportunity to write poems celebrating Atatürk. Not noticed immediately, Veysel started travelling to Ankara, eventually the whole country. A tour during which he will play bağlama, write and recite his poetry.

Though Veysel's legacy goes beyond talent and performance. Following the renown he started to receive for his work, he spent years teaching art, music and poetry in republican schools of many Turkish villages.

Today, the "Âşık" legacy lives on. His contributions to Turkish folk music are significant, and many of his songs have become classics. Some of his best known works include "Uzaklarda Bir Yerde" or "Kara Toprak". Songs always marked by simplicity, sincerity, and profound messages.

Those messages, likely influenced by the fate of his life, were ones of a humble human on the arduous path of life. Today, his work continues to be celebrated and admired in Turkey.

Almost a year after discovering this song, I see with hindsight what makes it so special. To me, Veysel's ballad is everything pure you can find in Turkish people. Humility, kindness. Melancholy, generosity. Joy of living. All the things that, if you get to travel Turkey a day, will make you feel at ease. At peace.

Through his art, Veysel became a figure bringing people together. Writing and singing for the society as a whole. Even bridging between people and the government. A unifying volition that had all its importance during the early days of the Turkish Republic, and that can still be felt in the songs of his Turkish counterparts.

This poem is an invitation to contemplate. An invitation to pause, exalt at nature, to appreciate each other. In their own way, Tarkan, Fazıl Say and Islandman have all prolonged this feeling and the message of Veysel. A powerful demonstration of what music can evoke and inspire.

Now tell me, which one resonates for you?