Explaining Keyf Yapmak

Some translations of the Turkish term “Keyf Yapmak” (from some very learned sources) are:

“Immersing your Self
in unadulterated pleasure as it
seeps into every piece
of your blossoming soul,
smooth like honey with lavender hues.”

“To take joy doing something, or out of something.”

“Taking a chill pill.”

“Transitioning to an alternate state of mental and spiritual comfort, reinforced by peace and pleasure.”

“There is a phrase in Italian which is dolce far niente which is pleasant idelenss or the sweetness of doing nothing (in particular). That seems similar.”

“The Northern version of that is ‘Bang Tidy’.”

Google Translate’s version is simply “Enjoyment”.

My name is Chandrika Narayanan-Mohan, and I have named this blog Keyf Yapmak (Doing Keyf) because this is how I feel when I read good books, look at and think about art, make lovely food and when I go to events that give me a new and unforgettable experience. I also feel this when I write. So it seemed to make sense to name a blog where I write about all the things I like Keyf Yapmak.

I also happen to have a BA in English Literature and History of Art and an MA in History of Art. I’d like to say that I’m an Art Historian but I never really know when that title sort of, happens. I interned and worked in various parts of the art world in London for two years, and have just moved to Dublin where I am studying for an MA in Cultural Policy and Arts Management at UCD, and when I’m not doing that I do other stuff. Like read. And go to cool events. And review those events on LeCool Dublin. And bake. And think about stuff. And then write about it.

Find me on Twitter, if you like. I also occasionally make some art.