A celebration of poetry and originality under the Writers in the Spotlight programme
Sharjah, November 16, 2024
As part of its participation in the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) hosted Emirati poet Amal Al-Sahlawi for an inspiring session titled “Poetry as an Act of Illumination”. This session was specially designed under SPL’s Writers in the Spotlight programme to highlight exceptional literary talent and enrich the cultural offerings of SIBF 2024.
The session delved into Al-Sahlawi’s literary journey, including her pioneering concept of transitional literature, a new genre she has introduced to the literary world. The poet reflected on her creative milestones, beginning with her debut poetry collection, I Had to Delay You, and continuing with her second publication, Welcome Aboard the Night Train of Sleepless Thoughts, published by Kalimat Group’s Rewayat imprint.
Al-Sahlawi spoke passionately about the transformative role of early reading in nurturing creativity, describing it as the “gateway to imagination.” However, she emphasised that true artistic insight stems from lived experiences. “To develop a unique perspective, one must engage deeply with life—meeting diverse people, travelling, writing, and critically analysing the world,” she shared.
The poet also provided a glimpse into her creative process, revealing how observing ordinary life in places like markets and beaches serves as a wellspring for authentic inspiration. “While solitude is often seen as a source of poetic insight, creativity flourishes when balanced with immersion in the world around us,” she explained.
Addressing her engagement on social media, Al-Sahlawi recognised its value in connecting with readers but urged writers to prioritise authenticity over external validation. “Writers must view the world through their lens, not through the expectations of others,” she noted.
The event concluded with a poetry reading, an interactive Q&A session, and a book signing.
-ENDS-