After reciting a poem to the president of Syria, he received funds to enroll in Damascus University.Īdonis was politically active in his teen years, and as a result, was imprisoned for a year. He was helped in this endeavor by his father, who taught him to read and encouraged him to memorize poems. Adonis (1930-) The Daily TelegraphĪdonis, born Ali Ahmad Said Esber in the Syrian countryside, took on the name of the Greek goddess of fertility after starting his poetry career as a teenager. Their work tells an intimate story of the social injustice, discrimination, and political strife they have experienced. At times of heightened political and cultural tension, poetry is an excellent means of expression, addressing essential human passions and struggles and bridging divides in ways that other mediums cannot. The poets below reflect on subjects ranging from love and intimacy to oppression and persecution, all seeking to establish a unique voice and sense of identity. Poets were revered members of society, conveying their stories and lessons through music.Īrab poets of this century have both continued this tradition and fundamentally altered its forms and means of expression. The earliest Arab societies used poetry to express beauty, divinity, and impressions of faith. It is both a cornerstone of Arab poetry and an icon of passionate, emotional expression.
The ode, the signature poem of the Arab world, has influenced many global literary traditions. Poetry is sometimes referred to as “the language of the Arabs.” As an oral tradition, poetry predates Islam itself.
By: Cait O’Connor/ Arab America Contributing Writer
0 kommentar(er)
