Renowned Omani Poet Zahir Al Ghafri Passes Away at 68
- Publish date: Sunday، 22 September 2024
Omani literary giant Zahir Al Ghafri dies in Sweden, leaving a lasting legacy in modern Arabic poetry.
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Omani poet Zahir Al Ghafri, a pivotal figure in the Sultanate's literary world, has passed away at the age of 68 after a long illness.
Known for shaping modern Omani poetry, Al Ghafri’s works blended Omani heritage with global modernity, resonating deeply within the Arab world and beyond.
Born in 1956 in Surur, Oman, Al Ghafri studied philosophy at Mohammed V University in Morocco, which profoundly influenced his poetic style. His career took him across the globe, from Iraq and Morocco to New York and Sweden, where his experiences and observations enriched his writing. Despite his international life, he remained deeply connected to his Omani roots, often drawing inspiration from his homeland.
Al Ghafri was renowned for his contributions to Arabic free verse, influenced by poets like Badr Shakir Al Sayyab. His collections, including White Hooves, Silence Comes to Confess, and In Every Land a Well Dreams of a Garden, earned him global recognition. His works were translated into multiple languages, further extending his influence.
Throughout his career, Al Ghafri received several honors, including the “Kika” Poetry Award in 2008. His poetry, celebrated for its simplicity and emotional depth, touched on universal themes of life, travel, and human experience. His passing marks a significant loss to the Arab literary community, but his legacy endures in the hearts of readers and poets worldwide.
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