Kalba fishermen's body renders traditional sea songs

As part of its centennial celebrations, Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) hosted an event titled 'Songs of the sea and poetry' on Friday at Kalba Waterfront, in collaboration with the House of Poetry at the Department of Culture.

- Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The evening brought together poets, academics and cultural figures to explore the historical and emotional ties between the Emirati people, the sea and Arabic poetry.

The programme included a panel discussion on criticism, rhetoric and heritage language in Arabic verse, featuring poets Abdullah Al-Hadiya and Talal Salem Al-Saberi. The event also featured live poetry recitals, traditional sea songs performed by the Kalba Fishermen's Association, and an exhibition of maritime artefacts highlighting the local community's connection to the sea.

HERITAGE IS INHERITED AND RENEWED:

Poet Abdullah Al-Hadiya described himself as a messenger with a creative and intellectual mission that bridges the past, present and future. He reflected on the challenges of navigating today’s information overload, yet affirmed that those with a clear purpose can still express themselves meaningfully.

Questioning whether past standards can judge the present, he argued that identity is not just inherited but constantly evolving, forming the basis of one’s personal journey. He urged individuals to pursue their own paths.

SEIZING THE MOMENT AMID DISTRACTIONS: