Two seniors studying literature with a concentration on creative writing at The Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, & Technology at UT Dallas secured the top spots in a prestigious writing competition.
At this year’s Texas Association of Creative Writing Teachers (TACWT) annual conference, Michaela Kubes and Nezihe Yildirim impressed the judges with their captivating narratives, earning first place in the nonfiction and fiction categories.
While both students showcase the exceptional talent and dedication fostered within our program, Yildirim’s journey to crafting her award-winning fiction story will take center stage in this article. To explore Kube’s story, visit her feature on the Bass News site.
Yildirim, a Bass School literature program senior, secured first place in the TACWT fiction category with her story “The Twenty-Seventh.” The Bass School recently interviewed Yildirim to discuss the themes she explored and discuss her literature studies.
Can you tell me about the story?
The Twenty-Seventh” unfolds on the most anticipated, adventurous day of the year for Safiyya, a young and illiterate woman residing in a small village. This day marks the arrival of the fourth letter from her husband, who is deployed in the army. Each letter he sends includes a carefully crafted drawing. In response, Safiyya traces poems that reflect the depth of her emotions. The narrative revolves around her effort to seek knowledge and create simple yet powerful expressions of love. The story is about how learning to read and write becomes a symbolic journey, connection, and longing.
What motivated you to explore this particular topic?
In Islam, seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim. I believe knowledge is a very important factor in life, which individuals should actively seek and delve into. With “The Twenty-Seventh,” I wanted the protagonist to be a young lady with a strong desire for knowledge, and I imagined her journey beginning with literacy.
The villagers are like family to Safiyya, especially after her husband leaves. I wanted to write about a heartwarming, comfortable world where everyone is welcoming and supportive. As for Safiyya, I tried focusing on her delicacy and her good nature. I think Safiyya’s character reflects the values and principles I hold dearly.
What is it about the story that clicked with people?
The feedback from my parents, siblings, and close friends highlighted a common opinion: this generation longs for innocence. The young woman in the story devotes her entire life to learning, attempting to connect with her fellow villagers and her husband.
If you read “The Twenty-Seventh,” the story is very pure. The narrative, including its romantic elements, is minimal, personal, and innocent. All characters have noble intentions and encourage Safiyya in various ways, avoiding unnecessary “drama.” Whether it’s the woman from the bakery or her best friend, everyone is there for her through thick or thin.
What challenges did you face during the writing process, and how did you overcome them?
There were many times I deleted paragraphs and sentences, rewrote them, or completely took them out of the story. There is one thing I had trouble plotting, which was the ending. My first brainstorming process was to have Safiyya’s husband die at the end so that it would be a melodramatic ending. But then, I thought that if the story’s focus shifted to the death of her husband and her grieving, the entire concept of knowledge and her struggle in reading/writing would be pushed to the side. Therefore, I left the ending to be open to interpretation.
What made you want to study literature?
My parents inspired me. My mother has always admired my writing since I was in elementary school. I remember a journal I had that I filled with poetry. My mother always encouraged me to keep writing, even if it was something as short as two lines. So, when I think about writing, the first person who comes to mind is my mother.
My father has also been very encouraging and supportive throughout my academic career. He still asks me now and then if I have a new project for him to read! I always look forward to his feedback about my stories because it’s another way to grow and develop my writing process.
My family undoubtedly paved the way for me to pursue a career in Literature, God willing. On the academic side of things, literature just makes me happy. I love reading, critiquing, thinking about characters, and imagining new horizons. Literature makes me enjoy my college career. I believe that no matter what a person is pursuing, they will face challenges. So, finding moments of happiness and relief along the way is important. I’m truly thankful for the path I’ve been led down and the exciting opportunities that await me. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m eagerly looking forward to what lies ahead.
Were there any mentors or professors at our university who played a crucial role in shaping your writing journey? How have they influenced your work?
Dr. Toni was my Fiction workshop Professor when I wrote this story. She is very encouraging and genuinely wants her students to succeed. Our class discussions and peer feedback helped the storytelling process, providing valuable insights and constructive critique.