Sharjah Public Libraries Honors Emirati Literary Heritage with Folk Poetry Exhibition
In a remarkable homage to Emirati cultural heritage, Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) has inaugurated a captivating exhibition dedicated to Folk Poetry at the picturesque Kalba Waterfront. This initiative, part of SPL’s centennial celebrations, seeks to elevate the legacy of traditional Emirati poetry and acknowledge the poets whose verses have intricately woven the fabric of the nation’s cultural identity. The event, organized in collaboration with distinguished heritage researcher Dr. Rashid Ahmed Al Mazrouei, represents a significant contribution to the understanding of how poetry can encapsulate the ethos and values of a society.
The Folk Poetry exhibition is open to the public until October 19 and features an impressive compilation of works from 14 late Emirati poets. These selected poems are accompanied by rare audio recordings that not only document the personal experiences of the poets but also capture their profound impact on the UAE’s literary landscape. By showcasing the diverse poetic schools represented by these poets, the exhibition illuminates their ongoing influence on the cultural identity of the United Arab Emirates.
SPL’s initiative is more than a mere artistic display; it serves as an invitation for visitors to engage deeply with the literary and social significance of Nabati poetry. This traditional form of Emirati verse has been a vital mode of expression, preserving the unique cultural identity and experiences of the Emirati people over generations. Through this exhibition, SPL reaffirms its commitment to fostering appreciation for the country’s literary heritage among younger audiences, thereby reinforcing connections to the cultural traditions that are pivotal to the national narrative.
Eman Bushulaibi, Director of SPL, articulates the importance of this event, stating, “This exhibition is a key part of our centenary programme and affirms our ongoing commitment to preserving the UAE’s cultural memory. It recognizes the poets whose work captured the rhythms of everyday life and expressed the values of their time.” She emphasizes the historical, artistic, and cultural significance of Nabati poetry, which has long served not only as a record of social identity but also as a vessel for cultural continuity.
The showcased poems represent a rich tapestry of voices, including those of esteemed poets such as Ali Bin Rahma Al Shamsi, Rashid Bin Tannaf Al Nuaimi, and Ousha Bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi, among others. Each poet’s work offers a distinct perspective, contributing to the overall narrative of Emirati heritage.
In conjunction with the exhibition, SPL hosted a cultural seminar titled “From Ink to Poetry,” where participants explored the multifaceted role of poetry in personal and social realms. This event provided a platform for poets Faisal Mohammed Khalfan Al Naqbi and Saif Abdullah Khalfan Al Naqbi to share insights about their creative processes and to perform selected works. It also included a live calligraphy workshop led by Ali Al Hammadi, who artistically interpreted key verses during the session, blending visual art with the oral tradition of poetry.
Both Faisal Al Naqbi and Saif Al Naqbi expressed their deep connection to poetry and acknowledged the vital role SPL played in their development as poets. Al Naqbi reminisced about his early influences, saying his appreciation for poetry deeply grew through his frequent visits to SPL’s Khorfakkan branch, where he immersed himself in poetry and literature. He encourages the youth to engage with poetry, highlighting the importance of intergenerational dialogue in nurturing talent and creativity.
Saif Al Naqbi described poetry as his primary means of emotional expression, noting that it feels more authentic to him compared to other art forms. He attributes his growth to the UAE’s unwavering support for arts and culture, which provides an environment conducive to creative exploration. In his perspective, poetry is rooted in the genuine experiences of people, encompassing both joyous and challenging moments.
Both poets emphasized the responsibility they bear in curating their work, advocating for careful editing and collaboration among peers to enrich their writing. Al Naqbi also urged poets to delve into traditional forms to safeguard the linguistic expressions that characterize Emirati poetry while remaining open to evolving styles that can infuse contemporary relevance into their work.
The Folk Poetry exhibition and accompanying events underscore a significant cultural milestone for the UAE and serve as a reminder of the enduring power of poetry as a means of storytelling, identity formation, and cultural preservation. As Sharjah Public Libraries continues to champion initiatives that promote literary heritage, the hope is that such endeavors will inspire future generations to cherish and uphold the rich tapestry of Emirati culture.
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