Two dynamic young voices discuss Emirati literature

The 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) continued its celebration of literary innovation, spotlighting two dynamic young Emirati voices in a discussion on the evolution of Emirati literature.

The thought-provoking session, titled New Emirati Literature and moderated by Waleed Al Marzooqi, featured Khalid Almazmi and Hamdan Alameri. The duo explored how literature in the UAE is transforming in an era defined by digital data and rapid cultural shifts.

The discussion highlighted the writers’ distinctive approaches to narrative and poetry, underlining their contributions to carving out a space for Emirati voices in the literary world.

“Emirati literature is at a fascinating crossroads,” remarked Khalid Almazmi. “We are building on a rich cultural legacy while finding ways to reflect contemporary realities and global influences in our work.”

Almazmi, author of Qariat Qalby (My Heart’s Village), a 66-page collection of short stories first published in 2021, reflected on the personal nature of his craft. “Writing is how I express my spirit and identity. Each time I reflect on why I write, I discover a new answer — it evolves just like I do. In My Heart’s Village, I wanted to create a timeless world where imagination gives people the energy to endure life. Writing for me is about touching hearts, not following trends. Every word I write is carefully crafted for readers of all ages, ensuring my pen reflects my uniqueness.”

Charting his own literary journey, Hamdan Alameri, author of two books including Mozakerat Qotnia (Cotton Notes), shared: “My journey with writing began with letters to my mother — a way to express my emotions. But when I moved to the US, I realised my voice was marginalised in a different society. Writing soon transformed from a childhood hobby into a way to represent the people I stand for.”

Hamdan Alamiri

He added: “Writing is deeply personal; I write as if I’m speaking to myself, questioning and critiquing every word. It’s a process of striving for perfection while silencing the noise of the world, ensuring my work resonates with its intended audience — whether they are adults or adolescents.”

Moderator Waleed Al Marzooqi skilfully steered the conversation with thoughtful questions, inviting the speakers to share their creative processes and personal journeys. The session provided valuable insights into how these emerging writers navigate the challenge of preserving cultural heritage while embracing modern storytelling techniques.

SHARJAH ARCHAEOLOGY BOOTH: The Sharjah Archaeology Authority’s booth at the ongoing 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) is a captivating time capsule, transporting visitors back to the early days of life in the emirates. Showcasing meticulously pinned and backlit illustrations of artefacts unearthed in Sharjah, the display offers a glimpse into the emirate’s rich and ancient heritage.

The booth features an impressive array of historical treasures: intricately carved ivory pieces, stone bowls, gold rings, Islamic pottery, softstone vessels, a chalice adorned with ibex motifs, a bronze tetradrachm coin, and many more remarkable artefacts. Each illustration includes a QR code linking visitors to the Sharjah Government’s website for further details on these fascinating items.

A unique highlight is the collection of landscape photographs taken by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, capturing the timeless beauty of Sharjah’s scenery.

Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, this year’s fair celebrates all forms of knowledge-sharing, connecting past, present, and future. Running until November 17 at Expo Centre Sharjah, the SIBF is a testament to the enduring power of books and artefacts to educate and inspire across generations.

According to an earlier report, participating publishers around the world at the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) expressed their delight to be part of the one of the biggest book fairs and aim to promote reading and appreciation among book lovers.

This year the SIBF is being held under the theme ‘It Starts with a Book’ at Expo Centre Sharjah and organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) till Nov. 17.