I write my novels in English first; then they are translated into Turkish by professional translators. Then I take their translation and rewrite. So basically, I write the same novel twice.

For me, coming from the women's movement, politics is not just about parties and parliament. There is politics in our private space and in gender relations as well. Wherever there's power, there's politics.

For me, writing stories is one way of feeling connected to the universe and God.

Writing in another language gives me an additional freedom, an additional way of thinking. It's a challenge, but I like the challenge.

Well Washington DC what are you going to do. They think the capitol steps are the state of the art in comedy. You try to drag them into the 20th century let alone the 21st and they refuse to come with you.

First of all, to defend my work, I had to believe that I am doing a totally silly, stupid, innocent comedy.

You may not be able to change a situation, but with humor you can change your attitude about it.

I started doing little amateur nights at the comedy club that was right next to the restaurant that I waitressed in when I was in university. I was probably 22 years old. I didn't do it with any intention of making a career out of it; I had just always valued comedy.