Germany-based Turk writer Erdal Shahin’s book Transformation of the Crime of 1915 is about the Armenian Genocide and shows how the author feels guilty for the dark page in the history of the Armenian people. During a press conference, the writer stressed the fact that the Germans also feel guilty for the Armenian Genocide because they let it happen, reports Tert.am

“In 2009 and 2010, I had the opportunity to participate in a conference in Berlin where the Greeks and particularly the Armenians would approach us and tell us that we shouldn’t feel bad because this was something that our ancestors did. I told them that if I don’t express an opinion or position, it means I’m continuing the genocide, and only by taking action will I be different from the rest. If I keep silent, I won’t be different from the criminals. I have to take action,” he said.

The book has been released in three languages, including German, Turkish and Armenian. As the author explained, the German version is for German-Turks so that they can read it, confront their past and change their mindset to a certain extent.

“The Turkish version is for the Turkic-speaking community so that a lot of people in Turkey read the book and be able to understand the pain and sorrow of the people of their neighboring country. I wanted to release the Armenian version of the book so that the Armenians know that there are people whose souls scream out,” Shahin said.

Erdal Shahin mentioned that most people aren’t interested in these kinds of issues because they have chosen one path and don’t see the reality.

“This book doesn’t serve as my apology to the Armenian people because you can’t conceal a crime with an apology. Something has to be done. If not, the crime will be repeated. This book is simply a shout-out. I want to tell people that each of them can do something to make life more just,” he said.