Introduction
Poetry is a beautiful form of expression that transcends the boundaries of language and culture. As a native of Abu Dhabi, UAE, I have been writing poetry in Arabic since my early years, heavily influenced by the great poets Al Mutanabbi, Al Farazdaq, Prince Khaled Al Faisal, Nizar Qabbani, Ghazi Al Gosaibi and Abdul Rahman Rafi. In 1996, I embarked on a new journey of writing English poetry. This journey has been filled with challenges and lessons, but also immense joy in discovering how my Arabic roots have influenced my English poetry. In this article, I share my experiences and insights into writing poetry in a second language and how my Arabic heritage has shaped my work.
Bridging the Gap: A Comparative Analysis of Arabic and English Poetry
As a poet who has ventured into both Arabic and English poetry, I have had the unique opportunity to explore the linguistic, cultural, and historical aspects of these two poetic traditions. While Arabic and English poetry possess distinct features, they share several key elements, such as the use of figurative language and themes, that allow readers and listeners to transcend the boundaries of their respective cultural contexts and forge a deeper connection with the human experience.
Linguistic Differences and Similarities
Arabic poetry is rich in phonetic and morphological features, including rhyme, meter, and parallelism. English poetry, on the other hand, is characterized by metrical patterns, rhyme schemes, and various forms. Both traditions share the use of alliteration, assonance, and consonance for auditory effect, which I have embraced in my own writing, creating a unique blend of Arabic and English poetic styles.
Cultural and Historical Contexts
My Arabic heritage and upbringing in Abu Dhabi have shaped the themes and subjects of my English poetry. Arabic poetry is steeped in the Bedouin tradition, pre-Islamic poetry, and the Qur'an, while English poetry has been shaped by the Anglo-Saxon era, the Renaissance, and the Romantic period. As a result, my work often explores themes of love, loss, and longing rooted in the Arabic poetic tradition, while also addressing contemporary issues and experiences relevant to my life and those around me.
Themes and Figurative Language
Both Arabic and English poetry rely on the power of imagery and emotions to convey their messages. Drawing on the rich tradition of metaphor, simile, personification, and symbolism in Arabic verse, I create images that are both universal and grounded in my cultural heritage. This allows me to weave a tapestry of imagery that resonates with readers from diverse backgrounds while still retaining the essence of my Arabic roots.
Adding to My Literary Journey: "Taintlessness" and "Fields of Poetry"
In 2020, a significant milestone in my poetic journey was the publication of my first poetry book, titled "Taintlessness." This collection invites readers to step in, take a deep breath, and journey through a world of words filled with emotions—an introspection into the complex human experience. "Taintlessness" explores various themes such as love, pain, breaking, and healing, all told from the perspective of a young heart's many different conditions at the most pivotal moments. The melodic rhymes in this collection serve as a vessel for expressing intense emotions, as the words dance and linger on the page.
Following the success of "Taintlessness," in 2021, I had the privilege of joining other brilliant poets in a collaborative book called "Fields of Poetry." This anthology brought together diverse voices and perspectives, showcasing the power of poetry to connect people from different walks of life. My contributions to this collection continue to reflect my Arabic roots and the influence of my environment in Abu Dhabi, while also engaging with universal themes that resonate with readers around the world.
Call to Action:
If you're interested in exploring my poetry further, I invite you to purchase a copy of "Taintlessness" and "Fields of Poetry." By doing so, you'll not only be supporting my work but also immersing yourself in the rich and diverse world of poetry that transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries. You can find both books Sail Publishing website https://sailpublishing.com/author-name/omar-albeshr/ The books are also available on ebook format. Thank you for your support, and I hope you enjoy the journey through my words.
The Role of Poetry in Society
Arabic poetry has historically been used for praise, satire, and political expression, while English poetry mirrors the human experience, prompts reflection, and inspires change. In my work, I strive to serve as a bridge between these two poetic traditions, using my voice to express societal concerns and individual emotions while fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
Connecting with Readers:
I always enjoy discussing poetry and sharing experiences with fellow poetry enthusiasts. If you have any questions or would like to discuss poetry, feel free to reach out to me through @ASRomar10 on twitter and instagram. I look forward to engaging in meaningful conversations and learning from one another's perspectives.
Conclusion
Writing poetry in a second language has been a challenging and rewarding experience. By embracing my Arabic heritage and incorporating the influence of the great poets who have come before me, I have found my unique voice in the world of English poetry. My exploration of the similarities and differences between Arabic and English poetry has not only enriched my own understanding of poetry but has also allowed me to share my culture and experiences with a wider audience. I hope that my story inspires others to explore the beauty of writing poetry in a second language, and to cherish the unique perspectives that arise from our diverse backgrounds. By embracing the similarities and appreciating the differences, we can foster a deeper understanding of our shared human experience and appreciate the beauty and power of both poetic traditions.