In the world of poetry, the connections between the poet and their environment are essential for a deep understanding of literary works. Emirati poet Kaltham Abdullah emphasizes the importance of these connections when she says, “A poet cannot separate themselves from their environment and the issues of their society.” This statement captures the essence of the idea that a poet not only expresses their personal feelings but also interacts with the social and political issues that affect their community, which is what keeps Nabati poetry in the Gulf distinctive and impactful. In this article, we explore Kaltham Abdullah’s thoughts and perspectives on Nabati poetry and its relationship with society.
Engagement with Social Issues
Kaltham Abdullah points out that Nabati poetry in the Gulf region is an integral part of society, distinguishing it from other forms of folk poetry found in Egypt or the Levant. She asserts that the connection between poetry and community issues is not merely a luxury or choice, but a necessity that the poet faces in their artistic vision. She also observes that young poets are joining this field, showing an increasing interest in writing folk poetry.
Gulf Culture and Its History
Kaltham Abdullah reviews the pioneering role that Kuwait played in promoting culture in the Gulf during the 1960s and 1970s. This was due to the emergence of oil, which contributed to creating a vibrant cultural environment. She reveals that this environment was characterized by the emergence of multiple cultural platforms, yet Kuwait remains a prominent cultural center due to its historical weight and influence. Here lies the connection between the writer and their environment, where historical events and developments serve as a source of inspiration for poets.
Kaltham Abdullah’s Poetic Preferences
When it comes to poetic preferences, the poet favors writing Nabati poetry over classical poetry due to its depth of expression and strong connection to popular heritage. Kaltham Abdullah raises several questions regarding the experiences and development of young poets in this field. She considers her collection “Features of Water” to be the most successful because it revolves around societal issues, leading to greater engagement with the reader.
Kaltham Abdullah’s words clearly reflect the importance of the connection between poetry and the poet’s environment. As she has demonstrated, “A poet cannot separate themselves from their environment and the issues of their society,” which adds depth and authenticity to Nabati poetry. Her discussions deserve to be heard and understood as they reflect the nature of cultural life in the Gulf.