Baghdad: Writers, poets, and intellectuals gathered in Basra to commemorate the late poet Hussein Abdul Latif during a memorial session organized by the Union of Writers and Authors in Basra. The session, attended by a select group of literary figures, was moderated by critic Dr. Diaa Al-Thamiri, who opened the event by reading selections from Abdul Latif's work.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Thamiri highlighted the distinct nature of Abdul Latif's poetry, which seamlessly combined modernity with tradition. He pointed out the late poet's concise language and unique creative vision, which left a significant imprint on Arabic poetry. Despite battling illness until his death in 2014, Abdul Latif's impact remained profound. Rising to prominence in the 1970s, his work reflected the social and political transformations in Basra, often expressing his disapproval of wars and destruction.

Poet Ali al-Imara, head of the Basra Writers and Authors Union, shared personal anecdotes about his relationship with Abdul Latif. He described him as a pivotal figure in Basra's cultural scene and recalled his leadership role in the union's cultural committee starting in 1993. Al-Imara also referenced his article, "The Fortune Teller," written in memory of Abdul Latif.

The session featured several poetry readings. Dr. Majbal al-Maliki and Dr. Diaa al-Thamiri recited selections of Abdul Latif's poems, including "Carry Wheat." Writer Abdul Halim Mahouder shared memories of his friendship with the poet, emphasizing Abdul Latif's reputation for honesty and disdain for flattery, before reciting his poem "The Observer." Al-Thamiri read from "Positives," and Karim Jakhayour presented a poem dedicated to the occasion.

In closing, Al-Thamiri discussed the defining characteristics of Abdul Latif's poetic style, noting its conciseness and blend of modernity and tradition. He explained how Abdul Latif incorporated visual and cinematic elements, and was influenced by the spirit of haiku, often presenting his work as "flash poems," giving his poetry a distinctive character.