Damascus, May 6 (SANA) Syrian writers, journalists and cultural figures gathered Tuesday at the Damascus home of poet Nizar Qabbani for an evening dedicated to revisiting the literary legacy of one of the Arab world’s most celebrated modern poets.
Held in Qabbani’s historic residence in the Old City of Damascus, the event explored the poet’s enduring connection to the Syrian capital, whose architecture, jasmine-filled courtyards and everyday details became recurring elements in his poetry. Participants said Damascus was not merely a backdrop in Qabbani’s work, but a central source of emotional and artistic inspiration.
The evening, moderated by journalist Ahmad Taqsh, featured discussions on Qabbani’s influence on modern Arabic poetry and his ability to combine accessible language with themes of love, identity and political dissent. Speakers noted that his work moved beyond romantic poetry to address broader social and national issues.
Media critic Mohammad Mansour described Qabbani as “the living memory of Damascus,” saying the poet transformed ordinary details of Damascene life into enduring literary imagery tied to the city’s cultural identity.
Writer and journalist Nesreen Traboulsi reflected on the emotional and cultural resonance of Qabbani’s poetry, saying his writing helped bridge the gap between literary language and everyday life through its use of familiar images and personal memory.
Host Mohammad Nizam said the event coincided with the anniversary of Qabbani’s death and was intended as a tribute to his literary and cultural legacy. He described Qabbani as both a national poet and a poet of love.
The event drew a large audience and featured a range of literary discussions highlighting the lasting impact of Qabbani’s work on Arab cultural life and collective memory.
ABD
