Sharjah: The General Secretariat of the Sharjah Award for Arabic Poetry Criticism has announced the theme for its sixth edition, 'Transformations of Poetic Language in the Arabic Poem'. This prestigious event is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and is organized by the Department of Cultural Affairs at the Sharjah Department of Culture.
According to Emirates News Agency, the theme selection was made during a meeting at the Department of Culture, where the General Secretariat opened submissions to writers, critics, and enthusiasts of Arabic poetry criticism, aligning with the prize's terms and conditions. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Secretary-General of the award, highlighted the impact of Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi's cultural vision, which has significantly contributed to the prominence of Arabic poetry criticism in the Arab cultural landscape.
Al Qaseer emphasized that the prize is entering a new phase by addressing a critical theme, aiming to enhance the cultural landscape by focusing on the evolving language and aesthetics of Arabic poetry. He noted that the prize has, over its successive editions, helped establish a specialized critical library, enriched by the growing number of submissions and participant engagement.
He further explained that the current edition's theme offers expansive critical avenues, filled with implications and references, and is rooted in an in-depth research approach to the shifts in poetic language within Arabic poetry. This direction provides critics with opportunities to explore emerging critical issues.
Additionally, Al Qaseer mentioned that the secretariat plans to broaden the prize's influence, targeting universities and academic circles, and reaching out to critics across the Arab world. The initiative will also include organizing seminars through poetry houses throughout the Arab region, thereby ensuring wide-ranging Arab participation.