Egyptian poet and journalist Khalaf Jaber says the format suits today’s pace as he revisits a literary legacy he believes deserves wider recognition
Sharjah, November 5, 2026
A new audiobook edition of In Search of Riyad Al Saleh Al Hussein is bringing renewed attention to the influential Syrian poet’s life and work, as Egyptian poet and journalist Khalaf Jaber reflected on why Al Hussein’s legacy deserves to be rediscovered by new audiences.
Born in Daraa in 1954, Al Hussein died in 1982 at the age of 28. He published three poetry collections during his lifetime, with a fourth appearing posthumously, and his work went on to leave a significant mark on modern Syrian poetry.
Speaking during the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2026), Jaber discussed the research behind the book, Al Hussein’s place in modern Arabic poetry and the decision to bring the work into audio. The session was moderated by Emirati poet and author Shaikha Al Mutairi.
For Jaber, the choice of format reflects changes in how audiences engage with literature. “Why the audiobook? Because it is the medium that suits this era, its pace, and the tools and possibilities available today,” he said.
Renewing attention to a poetic legacy
Jaber also questioned whether Al Hussein received the level of attention his work deserved, both during his lifetime and after his death. He reflected on the particular emotional connection later generations can develop with poets they never had the opportunity to meet, whose lives they come to know through poems, memories and accounts left behind. That sense of absence, he suggested, can itself shape how readers encounter a poet’s work and legacy.
Jaber connected his interest in Al Hussein to a wider fascination with preserving human stories.
“I am fascinated by biographies and by telling people’s stories,” he said. “If there is a story worth telling, a human experience, it should be told.”
He added that this instinct has drawn him towards writing about both influential cultural figures and lesser-known individuals whose lives contain stories worth recording.
For Jaber, Al Hussein belongs firmly within that tradition: a poet whose short life and literary influence make his story worth preserving.
The session formed part of SIBF 2026’s cultural programme, which brings together writers, thinkers and readers for discussions exploring literature, creativity and the stories behind books.
Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair is being held at Expo Centre Sharjah from November 4–15, 2026. The 12-day event brings together 2,673 publishers and exhibitors from 124 countries.
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