The historic Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain will once again become the epicenter of cultural heritage as it hosts the third edition of the ‘Poetry Nights: The Sung Poetry’ programme from 17 to 23 November 2024. Organized as part of the renowned Al Ain Book Festival, the event is spearheaded by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), showcasing a rich blend of Emirati heritage, literature, and oral traditions.
A Celebration of Heritage Through Poetry
The ‘Poetry Nights: The Sung Poetry’ programme stands as a testament to the ALC’s unwavering commitment to preserving Emirati cultural identity. This year, 74 poets and scholars from across the UAE and beyond will gather at Al Jahili Fort to explore the intricate tapestry of folk poetry, a cornerstone of Emirati oral heritage. The fort’s historic ambiance amplifies the event’s significance, merging the cultural and historical into a profound sensory experience.
Themes Driving the Programme
This year’s event is structured around two complementary themes:
- Honoring Late Poets: The first theme pays homage to poets who passed away in the past year. Their contributions to the art form will be immortalized through initiatives that document their poetic journeys.
- Evolving Poetic Narratives: The second theme delves into the progression of Emirati poetry, tracking its development from oral traditions to contemporary expressions. This exploration strengthens the nation’s collective memory, ensuring the vibrancy of its poetic legacy.
Cultural Vision: Protecting Oral Heritage
H.E. Saeed Hamdan Al Tunaiji, Executive Director of the ALC, underscores the program’s vital role in elevating cultural awareness and documenting folk poetry. He describes poetry as “a creative text in the local dialect that reflects the characteristics, customs, and lifestyles of the people.” According to Al Tunaiji, this initiative serves as a historical, geographical, and demographic record, ensuring future generations inherit a deeply rooted cultural legacy.
The ALC employs a structured methodology that goes beyond mere celebration, encompassing documentation, preservation, and education. By connecting contemporary audiences with the roots of Emirati poetry, the programme nurtures a profound appreciation for oral traditions.
Exploring the Four Stages of Folk Poetry Documentation
Over the course of the week, 21 sessions will illuminate the major milestones in the documentation of folk poetry. These sessions explore four pivotal stages:
1. Oral Tradition Phase
In the pre-union era, poetry majlis served as a cornerstone of communal storytelling. These gatherings preserved oral traditions, forming the foundation of folk poetry.
2. Paper Documentation Era
The advent of local publications provided a platform for poets to share their works. Newspapers and magazines dedicated space to folk poetry, sparking intellectual discussions and fostering poetic exchanges.
3. Audiovisual Revolution
The 1980s brought about a transformative period when radio and television programs began showcasing poets. This era enabled wider reach, helping folk poetry gain recognition beyond traditional boundaries.
4. Digital Age
In the modern era, social media and digital platforms have empowered a new generation of poets. These platforms enable instant sharing and interaction, keeping the art form alive and relevant in today’s fast-paced world.
Honoring the Poetry Majlis Legacy
The programme’s unique feature is its recreation of the traditional poetry majlis. This initiative gathers poets or their descendants from various regions of the UAE, showcasing the deep connections between past and present. The fort’s 130-year-old legacy adds authenticity to the recitations, providing an evocative backdrop for this immersive experience.
Attendees will witness poetry as a living tradition, resilient in its ability to adapt while remaining rooted in Emirati values. This approach highlights the role of poetry as a cultural bulwark, preserving linguistic heritage and reinforcing national identity.
Why Al Jahili Fort?
Built in the late 19th century, Al Jahili Fort is one of the UAE’s most iconic historical sites. Its architectural splendor and cultural significance make it an ideal venue for an event of this stature. The fort symbolizes resilience and continuity, reflecting the enduring nature of Emirati poetry.
Hosting the ‘Poetry Nights: The Sung Poetry’ programme at this heritage site strengthens the connection between culture and history. It provides a platform that transcends mere performance, turning poetry into an act of historical preservation.
A Platform for Cultural Exchange
The event goes beyond national boundaries by inviting international scholars and poets to participate. This exchange enriches the festival’s intellectual scope, offering attendees a broader understanding of global poetic traditions. Such interactions highlight the universal appeal of poetry as a bridge between cultures.
Fostering Awareness and Appreciation
In its third year, the programme continues to gain momentum, becoming a much-anticipated annual gathering for poets and enthusiasts. Its themes resonate deeply with the UAE’s vision of fostering cultural awareness and preserving heritage.
The ALC’s efforts align with the nation’s broader objectives to nurture a generation that values authentic Emirati traditions. By emphasizing the educational and inspirational aspects of folk poetry, the programme reinforces a sense of pride and belonging.
Event Highlights
- 74 Poets and Scholars: Representing a diverse range of expertise and styles.
- 21 Sessions: Covering key milestones in the documentation and evolution of poetry.
- Interactive Majlis: A simulation of traditional poetic gatherings.
- Cultural Immersion: Set against the historic backdrop of Al Jahili Fort.
- Global Participation: Enriching discussions with international perspectives.
Join the Celebration of Heritage
The ‘Poetry Nights: The Sung Poetry’ programme is more than an event; it’s a movement that unites past, present, and future. As we gather under the timeless arches of Al Jahili Fort, we honor the poets who shaped our cultural identity while inspiring a new generation to carry forward their legacy.
Be part of this historic celebration from 17 to 23 November 2024, and immerse yourself in the world of Emirati folk poetry.
