Literary event at MBR Library marks Arabic Language Day
Iraqi poet Kareem Al Iraqi depict plight of Iraqi children during invasion and blockade
TWith its rich and diverse vocabulary, the Arabic language reflects our identity, culture, and our Arab and Islamic roots in the best possible way, while forming a fundamental pillar of the national identity of the UAE.”
he Mohammad Bin Rashid Library (MBRL) recently hosted prominent writers, poets, intellectuals, including Iraqi poet Kareem Al Iraqi and Emirati poet Ebrahim Mohammad Ebrahim, in celebration of World Arabic Language Day.
It also included a book signing event dedicated to Da’eratu Al Tawabil (The Circle of Spices) novel by Emirati writer Salha Obeid. There was also a book reading and signing event for Al Asmaa (The Names) book, translated by Emirati journalist Safia Al Shehi, winner of the Shaikha Latifa Bint Mohammad Award for Childhood Creativity in the art of oration.
Poetry reading
The event started with a poetry reading by Al Iraqi and Ebrahim, in the presence of Mohammad Al Murr, chairman of the MBRL Board of Directors; Dr Mohammed Salem Al Mazroui, board member of the MBRL, along with a select group of Emirati and Arab writers, poets, and intellectuals.
Depicting the situation of Iraqi children during the invasion and the blockade, Al Iraqi dedicated a poem to His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VicePresident and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, praising his stance challenging the blockade of Iraq by sending a ship carrying food and medicines to Iraqi children.
Al Iraqi recited several other poems, such as Al Mi’taf (The Coat), La’ibatu Al Biliardo (The Billiard Player), which Emirati poet Shaikha Al Mutairi responded to, along with La Tashkou Le Elnas (Don’t Complain to Others.
Emirati poet Ebrahim recited a number of his beautiful poems, first of which was Hiwarun Sakhinun Ma’ Al Bahr’ (A Heated Exchange with the Sea) and Ila Ibnati Najlaa (To My Daughter, Najlaa), as well as other short poems, such as Qissa La Tantahi (An Endless Story), Taba’ud (Separation), and Taqarub (Affinity).
Jamal Al Shehi, board member of MBRL Foundation, said: “With its rich and diverse vocabulary, the Arabic language reflects our identity, our culture, and our Arab and Islamic roots in the best possible way, while forming a fundamental pillar of the national identity of the UAE.
“MBRL is a creative, artistic, and community hub that actively contributes to strengthening the national identity and preserving the cultural and human heritage.”
Jamal Al Shehi | Board member, MBRL Foundation