Dubai: The Mohammed bin Rashid Library is set to host the “Epistolary Literature Forum” on September 1st and 2nd, focusing on the letter as a literary art form and its significance in documenting thoughts, feelings, and relationships throughout history.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the forum will offer a comprehensive program of panel discussions that delve into the history of epistolary literature, its role in Arab and international culture, and exemplary literary letters. The discussions will explore their human, intellectual, and aesthetic dimensions. The event will commence with a short film, followed by a welcoming address and a research paper titled “Letters in Emirati Culture,” which analyzes the role of letters in Emirati cultural memory and their expression of social and intellectual relationships.

Collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre will bring a panel titled ‘The Epistolary Literature of Abu al-Ala al-Ma’arri: Reflections on Humanity and Existence.’ This session will explore Abu al-Ala al-Ma’arri’s engagement with epistles, focusing on their intellectual and philosophical reflections and their contribution to understanding his views on humanity and existence. Another session, ‘Letters of Writers: A Special Space Between Art and Creativity,’ will examine letters as intimate expressions revealing personal and intellectual insights not found in other literary forms.

The first day will conclude with a session on ‘The Epistles of al-Jahiz: Literature and Thought in the Art of Arabic Correspondence,’ emphasizing the significance of letters in Arabic literary heritage and their role in enriching intellectual and literary movements.

The second day will continue with a session titled “When Writers Write to Each Other: Friendships That Shaped Literature,” conducted in Russian, which will explore literary relationships and friendships developed through letters. This session will highlight their impact on creative experiences and literary dialogues. An English session, “Letters in the Age of Speed: Has Form or Essence Changed?”, will discuss the transformations in writing during the digital age.

Additionally, the forum will feature “From Portuguese Letters,” examining the influence of Portuguese letters on self-expression and their impact on contemporary fiction and autobiographical imagination. This session aims to restore epistolary literature to its place as a timeless literary space for self-discovery.

Simultaneous interpretation will be available throughout the forum, accommodating audiences of different languages to engage with the discussions and enhance the program’s international scope.