Basra: The Mustafa Jamal Al-Din Literary Association in Basra hosted a critical evening that delved into the poetic legacy of the acclaimed poet Mustafa Jamal Al-Din. The event, which took place yesterday, featured a lecture titled “Paths of Renewal in the Poetry of Mustafa Jamal Al-Din,” delivered by the noted critic and academic Dr. Jassim Muhammad Jassam, and was moderated by fellow critic and academic Dr. Diaa Al-Thamiri. The gathering attracted a select group of Basra’s writers and intellectuals.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the evening commenced with a speech by the head of the association, poet Muhammad Mustafa Jamal Al-Din, who highlighted the significance of ongoing critical studies of his father’s work. He articulated that the poetic contributions of his father continue to provide researchers and critics with a wealth of material for analysis and reflection. Additionally, he commended Dr. Jassim Muhammad Jassam for his influential role in the Iraqi cultural scene and his involvement in the Central Executive Office of the General Union of Writers and Authors in Iraq.
The session began with a recording of Mustafa Jamal Al-Din reciting an excerpt from the poem “To the Poetic Vanguard.” Dr. Diaa Al-Thamiri then introduced the speaker, providing an overview of the unique elements of the poet’s work. In his lecture, Dr. Jassim Muhammad Jassam explored themes of innovation in Mustafa Jamal Al-Din’s poetry, highlighting his ability to merge classical Arabic poetic traditions with a spirit of renewal, creating a distinctive style.
Dr. Jassim Muhammad Jassam’s lecture offered a comprehensive critical examination of the poet’s texts, going beyond revisiting established literary accomplishments. He aimed to reveal new dimensions within the poetry, identifying its beauty and innovation, and investigating the reasons for its enduring presence in the collective poetic and cultural memory.
The lecture was followed by a discussion session with contributions from writer Dr. Muhammad Jawad Al-Badrani, Dr. Jaber Khalifa Jaber, poet Rafe’ Bandar, and other attendees. Their questions and observations expanded the discussion, shedding light on additional aspects of Mustafa Jamal Al-Din’s poetic journey.
The evening concluded with critic Dr. Jassim Muhammad Jassam being honored with the Mustafa Jamal Al-Din Certificate of Appreciation, presented by poet Ali Al-Imara, head of the Basra Writers Union. He was also awarded the Mustafa Jamal Al-Din Shield for Literary Creativity, presented by the head of the association.
Journalist Jassim Basrawi was also recognized at the event, receiving the Mustafa Jamal Al-Din Certificate of Appreciation from poet Abdul-Sada Al-Basri in acknowledgment of his media and cultural efforts and his coverage of the association’s activities and events.