Reviewed By: Swapna Peri

Turkish Author Sabahattin Ali’s “Madonna in a Fur Coat“, originally published in 1943, tells the story of Raif Efendi, a young Turkish man who journeys to 1920s Berlin to learn a trade and ends up finding himself through a chance encounter with an artist named Maria Puder. The novel, initially overlooked by critics as just another love story, has since become a celebrated work in Turkish literature, lauded for its poignant exploration of love, longing, and the complexities of the human soul. The English translation by Maureen Freely in 2016 introduced Ali to a wider audience, solidifying his place alongside Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar as one of the few Turkish authors included in Penguin Classics.

The novel begins with an unnamed narrator meeting Raif Efendi, a seemingly ordinary coworker, and sensing there is more to him than meets the eye. As Raif spends time in Berlin, he is captivated by a painting titled “Madonna in a Fur Coat” and eventually meets the artist, Maria Puder. Their connection transcends cultural differences, evolving into a profound love that is more platonic than romantic. Their relationship is tested by social norms and the struggles of everyday life, portraying a bond between two delicate souls who feel like outsiders.

Ankara, as the new capital of the Turkish Republic, represents a break from the Ottoman past and a focus on modernization, but for Raif Efendi, it symbolizes a society bound by tradition, where conformity reigns and individual expression is stifled. In contrast, Berlin in the 1920s is a vibrant, cosmopolitan hub of artistic and cultural freedom, offering Raif the opportunity for personal transformation and an authentic connection with Maria. Berlin’s open environment allows Raif to break free from the constraints of Turkish society and explore his true identity.

Author Sabahattin Ali’s writing delves into the depths of human emotions, exploring themes of melancholy, missed opportunities, and the yearning for something more. The characters of Raif and Maria are portrayed with psychological depth, revealing their inner torments and the complexities of their relationship. Maria’s character challenges societal expectations, as she declares that she is always completely open, like a man, and that she is like a man in many other ways, too. The author portrays a sensitive man, Raif, who is deeply emphatic.

The novel is not just a love story but also a reflection on living in a prejudiced society, where conformity is valued over compassion and equality. Ali’s prose captures the human experience of love in its various forms, exploring the tensions and contradictions that accompany deep emotions. The book evokes a sense of wistfulness, reminiscent of other European classics from the same era, and captures the feeling of missing out on opportunities, especially in love.

“Madonna in a Fur Coat” is a timeless tale that explores the human condition with sensitivity and depth. Ali’s masterful storytelling and profound insights into the human soul make this novel a must-read. The novel’s exploration of love, identity, and the search for meaning resonates with readers, making it a classic that continues to be cherished and rediscovered.