...Neither Here Nor There...

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In this narrative, Ahmet Polat, a half-Turkish, half-Dutch photographer, embarks on a journey to Turkey to explore his roots. He retraces his father's path as a truck driver who migrated to the Netherlands in the 1970s seeking a better life. Polat reflects on the unique circumstances of his parents' meeting in a small Dutch village, where they connected in a nightclub after a chance encounter on a dike. This moment sparks a relationship that leads to Diana's parents boarding a plane for Turkey, filled with both excitement and apprehension, yet surprisingly unconcerned about the language barrier. The story highlights the bond between two hardworking families who, despite their differences in age, religion, and background, share a common desire for their children's well-being. Through this exploration, Polat realizes that his quest for acceptance had been misdirected, as both of his grandfathers had already laid the groundwork for his identity long before his birth. The narrative sheds light on contemporary issues surrounding labor migration, cultural differences, and identity in a thought-provoking and refreshing manner.