Cultural evenings in Dubai celebrate prominent figures of Arabic poetry, who have left a remarkable imprint that has given literary heritage its unique brilliance and high creative standing. Through their rich programming, these events shine a light on the legacies of these greats, offering younger generations a comprehensive view of their Arab culture that inspires pride and admiration.
Recently, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library hosted one such evening titled “The Little Akhtal,” where the eloquence of the late Lebanese poet Bashara Khoury’s works intertwined with the beauty of authentic melody in a vibrant scene. During this celebration, “Al-Bayan” engaged with several creatives who emphasized the vital role of Dubai’s cultural events in reviving the creations and honorable legacies of distinguished poets, highlighting that the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library honors the contributions of literary icons and their histories.
Prominent Figures
Literary critic Dr. Imad Khalaf stated that the cultural evenings in Dubai, commemorating significant figures in Arabic poetry, serve a crucial purpose in recalling the worth of these exceptional poets. He noted that a remarkable poet remains alive in memory, yet such activities play an important role in introducing new generations to the brilliant names in Arab literature.
Regarding the significance of Bashara Khoury’s poetry on both literary and artistic levels, Khalaf remarked: “The Little Akhtal was a lyrical poet who lived during a time when musicians carefully chose and set the most beautiful poems to music. His works were honored by great artists such as Mohamed Abdel Wahab, Farid Al-Atrash, Asmahan, and Fairouz,” asserting that Arabic singing has done justice to the Little Akhtal by showcasing poems that reflect the depth of his creative experience.
High Values
Critic Kinanah Issa emphasized the necessity of such dialogue events organized in Dubai for the awareness they bring to those interested in Arabic poetry, culture, and heritage. She pointed out that contemporary memory has been impacted by rapid technological changes, making it essential for intellectuals to strive to revive the high values associated with the pioneering names in creativity, like the Little Akhtal.
She explained that the poetic experience of the Little Akhtal is characterized by a graceful rhythm through alliteration and repetition in some verses, making it appealing to great musicians. Additionally, his talent was marked by encyclopedic knowledge; he was a translator well-versed in Western poetry, allowing him to introduce genuine renewal through the fluidity of his expressions and the sweetness of his compositions.
Radiant Brilliance
Singer Rian Jarira praised the cultural efforts exerted by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Dubai to spread outstanding creativity and enhance its presence in people’s hearts through gatherings celebrating literature and arts. He affirmed that Arabic poetic and musical heritage will remain eternal, passed on through generations, and will retain its radiant brilliance over time due to its profound impact that transcends eras.
Jarira noted: “We have grown up with the words of poet of love and beauty Bashara Khoury. He lives within us through the beauty of his expression and the depth of his creative journey,” adding that the melodies crafted for the Little Akhtal’s poems are exquisitely tailored to reflect the value of his poetic output, able to convey his vivid imagery to the souls and imaginations of the audience.
Significant Responsibility
Singer Hala Tarad described her performance on the stage of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Dubai, singing the Little Akhtal’s poems, as a significant responsibility. She expressed that throughout this enjoyable experience, she aimed to deliver the songs with the same brilliance with which they were performed by the original great singers, fulfilling the sincere emotion that the late poet exhibited while composing his magnificent works.
She shared, “Our greatest concern while preparing for the evening program was the impact it would have on the audience’s hearts, and the level of their satisfaction and admiration for the challenging songs created by the legends of Arabic singing.” She expressed her immense happiness with the enthusiastic response from everyone, especially the youth, to the performed program that was enriched by continuous applause without a moment of boredom.