The Philosophy House in Fujairah hosted a poetry symposium titled “On Poetry and Philosophy” on Friday, 24 October, featuring poetry readings and discussions exploring the interplay between poetry and philosophy.

The poetry evening, organised by Fujairah’s Arabic Poetry House (Darat Al-Shi’r Al-Arab) in collaboration with the Philosophy House, marked the first joint initiative between the two institutions, aimed at enriching the emirate’s cultural and intellectual landscape.

The poetry event brought together prominent voices in literature and thought, including poet and philosopher Dr Ahmed Barqawi, Dean of the Philosophy House, poet and writer Hussein Darwich, poet Salima Al Mazrouei, Director of the Arabic Poetry House, and poet and translator Adel Khozam. The symposium was moderated by poet Mohammed Al Mutayyam.

Each participant presented a paper exploring a philosophical concept linked to poetry. Dr Barqawi opened the discussion with reflections on “the metaphysics and poetry, followed by Hussein Darwich, who examined the theme of love through both poetic and philosophical lenses, highlighting the dual nature of language as an expression of emotion and knowledge.

Salima Al Mazrouei’s contribution focused on the experience of Abu Al-Alaa Al-Ma’arri as both a poet and philosopher, exploring how his intellectual struggles and life experiences shaped his celebrated work “The Luzumiyyat”. She highlighted how his philosophical and poetic vision, along with his reflections on existence and moral values, were vividly manifested in his literary output, particularly during his later years following his return from Baghdad.

Meanwhile, Adel Khozam presented a paper titled “Paths of Enlightenment in Emirati Poetry”, which explored themes of liberation, progress, the fight against ignorance, and the importance of women’s education. His presentation also emphasised the role of reason, intellectual growth, and learning from the progress achieved by other nations.

Following the discussions, the event transitioned into a poetry reading, where all four poets shared selections of their work. The recitations ranged from free verse to traditional forms, providing the audience with a rich and diverse poetic experience that was warmly received.