Ramadan Cultural Nights Kick Off with Literary Gathering
In the heart of Rabat, the "Book Club Le Matin" has officially launched its special cultural program for Ramadan, commencing with an enchanting evening dedicated to the celebrated Moroccan poet, Widad Benmoussa. This literary event was skillfully moderated by writer and critic Mounir Serhani and saw the gathering of a diverse audience comprising avid readers, fellow writers, and cultural practitioners who came together to explore the significant role of poetry and literature in contemporary society. During this inaugural evening, attendees engaged in text readings, discussions about poetic creation, and enjoyed musical interludes provided by the talented singer Leïla Merini, creating an atmosphere rich in artistic expression and intellectual exchange.
A Journey Through Widad Benmoussa's Literary Landscape
The evening offered a unique opportunity to delve into the literary journey of Widad Benmoussa, an eminent figure in contemporary Moroccan poetry, who boasts an impressive portfolio of over thirteen poetry collections, many of which have been translated into various languages, including French and Spanish. Her active participation in literary festivals both domestically and internationally underscores her dedication to the craft. During the event, Widad shared insights into her early relationship with writing, tracing back to her childhood in Ksar El-Kébir, where a familial library sparked her passion for literature. This profound connection to books eventually led her down the path of poetry, a passion she nurtured from a very young age.
Widad also spoke fondly of Tangier, the city she now calls home, which she regards as a pivotal influence in her creative development. The coastal city's natural beauty and rich cultural history, shaped by the presence of various writers and artists, serve as a continual source of inspiration for her work. The evening's discussions prominently featured her latest book, "Fi Tadam," published by Al-Fassila in Tangier. This book is a remarkable compilation of poetic correspondences addressed to several iconic figures in literature, music, and the arts, including names like Marina Tsvetaïeva, Marilyn Monroe, and Frida Kahlo. It also contains letters to significant personalities in Arab and international literature, such as Mahmoud Darwich and Anna Akhmatova. The collection is further enhanced by artistic cards created by Widad herself, offering a visual dimension to the poetic narrative.
The night was accentuated by readings of Widad's poetry, including excerpts from her earlier works like "Je joue avec cet âge" and a heartfelt poetic letter to the legendary Charles Aznavour. Complementing the literary experience, the musical performance by Leïla Merini and her ensemble enriched the evening with a heartfelt tribute to Moroccan heritage, blending Andalusian music with the Malhoun repertoire, perfectly resonating with the spirit of Ramadan gatherings. The event concluded with a statement from the director of the "Book Club Le Matin," who expressed gratitude for the active participation from the audience and guests, reinforcing that such initiatives foster a vital dialogue between writers, artists, and readers, with plans for more Ramadan gatherings in the future.
As reported by lematin.ma.
