Overview

Giorgos Seferis, the celebrated Greek poet and diplomat, had a deep connection with Cyprus that left an indelible mark on his life and work. As a diplomat, Seferis visited Cyprus in 1953, 1954, 1955 and one last time in Ammochostos in 1969. These visits influenced his poetry, where Cyprus became a recurring theme. Of particular note of his time as a diplomat is his involvement in the Cyprus dispute. He invested a great deal of personal time, effort and emotions in resolving the dispute. This was one of the few times where he allowed personal and political to mix, showcasing Cyprus' importance to him. The island's unique cultural and historical context inspired Seferis, breaking a 7 year period where he had not produced any poetry while also shaping his exploration of identity, history, and the intricate relationship between individuals and their environment. His diplomatic experiences and time in Cyprus allowed him to contribute significantly to a better understanding of the island's cultural and historical significance to the wider world.