Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı is considered one of the prominent figures in Turkish literature. Born in 1886 in Istanbul, Kabaağaçlı completed his education at Istanbul Darülfünun and later engaged in literary pursuits. He began his literary career as a teacher, gradually gaining recognition for his writings.
Kabaağaçlı is best known for his most famous work and pseudonym, "Halikarnas Fisherman," derived from his long sojourn in and literary depictions of Bodrum. He became renowned for his tales set in Bodrum, depicting the lives of its inhabitants. His works predominantly revolve around the people, culture, and environment of the Aegean region, particularly highlighting the natural beauty and sea of Bodrum.
Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı is also recognized for his work "The Sea Gypsies," which was banned in Turkey and led to his imprisonment. In this work, he portrays the Turkish people's connection to the sea and nature, along with maritime culture. Consequently, he was sentenced to prison in 1943 and subsequently exiled. Throughout his exile, he remained in Bodrum, continuing his literary endeavors.
Kabaağaçlı made significant contributions to Turkish literature and culture as a writer and intellectual. He is remembered for his contributions to promoting Bodrum and reflecting the Aegean culture in his works.