And that’s my version of the Nightingale and Rose.

At the time, I refrained from using Petrarchan language (‘Oh woe is me the friendzoned lover’) as is popular in love poetry of the time, because 1) I was annoyed at it (still am) 2) I wanted this story to accurately mirror the mutual respect and equality in Zeynel and Ayse’s relationship.

The nightingale who is voiceless learns to sing. His love for the rose gives him the voice to finally express that love, and in turn he uses it to express his gratitude towards God. Meanwhile the rose, who starts out as an ordinary Tulip (petals closed up), blooms in response to this nightingale’s devotion, understanding now that she is a being worth loving. This gives her the confidence to reach out to the world (and to God), and reveal her true power and beauty.

Both the Nightingale and Rose benefit from each other’s presence. Their destiny is bound together. Just as Zeynel and Ayse were, before the night grew teeth.