Sharjah: The General Secretariat of the Sharjah Award for Arabic Poetry Criticism has announced 'Cultural and Artistic Patterns in Contemporary Arabic Poetry' as the theme for its fifth edition. The award is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and is organized by the Department of Cultural Affairs at the Department of Culture in Sharjah.
According to Emirates News Agency, the decision was made during a meeting by the General Secretariat of the Department of Culture, which also opened the call for participation. Writers, critics, and individuals interested in Arabic poetry criticism are invited to contribute, adhering to the award's terms and conditions.
Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of the Cultural Affairs Department and Secretary General of the award, emphasized that the cultural vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi has enhanced the prominence of poetry criticism in the Arab world. He stated that the award is advancing towards a renewed edition with a compelling critical theme that continues to establish a cultural scene. This initiative places Arabic poetry under scrutiny by Arab critics, fostering a specialized critical library due to the substantial participation in successive editions.
Al Qaseer mentioned that the new title offers a wide critical horizon with broad implications and references. It encourages critics to explore new critical topics related to cultural and artistic patterns in contemporary Arabic poetry, providing a vast area for research.
The Secretary-General highlighted that the Department of Cultural Affairs will promote awareness of the award among universities and academics, reaching out to criticism specialists across Arab countries. Additionally, poetry houses in the Arab world will organize introductory seminars to encourage broad participation.
The award aims to support Arabic poetry and stimulate the efforts of critics and those interested in poetic studies, contributing to the Arab creative landscape.
Financial rewards are offered to the top three winners, with the first place receiving AED100,000, the second place AED75,000, and the third place AED50,000.