Values are among the most crucial elements that constitute social life and ensure social cohesion. The transmission of values to future generations is essential for social and cultural continuity. Literature and poetry hold a significant place in conveying values to generations. In literary studies, implicitly conveyed expressions of values can have a more profound impact on students minds. A word, a sentence, or a verse from renowned and exemplary figures in the field can be more effective and enduring compared to values instilled through persuasion. Therefore, the works of Sezai Karakoç, who is known for his authorship and poetry, are worth examining in this context. This study examines Sezai Karakoç’s poem "Leylâ ile Mecnun" in terms of values education through the qualitative research method of "document analysis." The classification of values was used as the basis for identifying the values within the poem. Following the data collection process, content analysis was conducted to analyze the data. The identified values were classified under the categories of universal and national values. The frequency and the pages on which these values were identified are presented in tables. Subsequently, the values were explained according to their subheadings, and relevant examples from the specified pages were provided. As a result of the study, a total of 181 value expressions were identified in the poem, with 148 classified as universal and 33 as national. The most frequently identified value in the poem was religious belief (f=18), followed by love (f=11), being peace-loving (f=10), being sensitive to nature (f=10), being hopeful/optimistic (f=8), and being sensitive to historical/cultural heritage (f=8). Some of the least identified values included love and longing for one's homeland (f=1), equality (f=1), being loyal (f=1), being entrepreneurial/productive (f=1), and being trustworthy (f=1). In conclusion, it was determined that the poem is particularly rich in universal and spiritual values. The study also filled the gap in the literature on this subject. It is observed that numerous knowledge and values can be transmitted through poetry in the process of values education.

Sezai Karakoç, poem, values, Leylâ ile Mecnun.