Ülkü Tamer (1937–2018) was a distinguished Turkish poet, journalist, actor, and translator. Born in Gaziantep, he graduated from Robert College in Istanbul and became a leading figure of the "İkinci Yeni" (Second New) poetry movement in the 1950s. Known for his unique imagery and profound, unadorned language, Tamer masterfully used sharp irony to convey deep human emotions and social sensitivities in his celebrated poetry collections.

Beyond his poetic achievements, Tamer made a significant impact on Turkish cultural life. He translated over seventy books and numerous plays from legendary authors like Shakespeare and Chekhov, greatly enriching the Turkish theatrical repertoire. Throughout his dynamic career, he also served as an editor for major publishers, spearheaded influential arts magazines, and authored beloved story collections and memoirs. His exceptional contributions earned him prestigious accolades and cemented his legacy in modern Turkish literature.