Bandar Al-Fadghoush to Al-Rai: Poetry does not fade... and awards increase my sense of responsibility
- One of the most beautiful experiences I have ever had... at the Egyptian Opera House.
In an interview with Al-Rai, Al-Fadghous discussed his beginnings, the impact of his studies and critical engagement on his artistic journey, the awards he has received, and his relationship with singing. The details are outlined in the following lines.
• It is frequently claimed in this decade that the era of poetry has passed and the age of the literary novel has arrived. How accurate is this assertion?
- Poetry cannot disappear under any circumstances; it is a literary message. It is true that the novel has gained widespread popularity and a large readership in recent years, but poetry remains at the forefront of the literary scene, and its status is unmatched.
- I was born into a purely poetic environment. For me, poetry is a path I continue to pursue as a heritage I take pride in, having found my identity and self within it. I also discovered in it a vast space for innovation, imagery, and imagination. Poetry is not merely words arranged in meter and rhyme; it is an experience, a creative endeavor, and a carrier of images conveyed through language. Writing poetry is a challenge to the self before it is a challenge to others.
- I studied literature and criticism at the College of Arts, Kuwait University, which had a clear impact on changing my perspective on poetry. Once a poet reaches the stage of being a "self-critic," they become more precise in evaluating their own work. Many poems no longer satisfy them, so they constantly seek the best to please themselves before their audience.
- Attending Gulf and Arab poetry evenings had a significant impact on the development of my experience, particularly through interacting with a group of male and female poets and benefiting from their experiences and critical observations. These participations opened new horizons of knowledge for me and contributed to my poetic maturity.
• You won first place in the "Adhba Al-Qaseed" competition in Saudi Arabia, as well as in the "Diwaniyat Shuara Al-Nabt" competition in Kuwait. What do these awards mean to you?
- They are the harvest of hard work and study. At the same time, I do not deny the contribution of my friends and the audience who supported me. Achieving high placements gives me greater passion to accomplish new feats, creating a legacy I can be proud of and that those who come after me can benefit from.
- Certainly, awards are a great incentive to continue and progress, but they also place a greater responsibility on me regarding what I write in the future, ensuring that the literary message reaches all segments of society in an appropriate manner.
• You have a presence in Arab festivals and gatherings, culminating in "Arab Voices on the Banks of the Nile" at the Cairo Opera House. How do you describe this experience?
- It was one of the most beautiful experiences I have ever had. I found that the Egyptian audience appreciates Gulf poetry, recognizes its value, and reveres literature. I was greatly delighted that Gulf literature reached the banks of the Nile. Moreover, the interaction of the Egyptian audience was a source of joy for me and all the participating poets.
- I have had some experience with reciters (munshids), but so far, I have not collaborated with artists in the field of song. If the opportunity arises, I will seize it, God willing.
- There are many artists who hold a special place in my heart, but I hope that the great artist Ahlam Al-Shamsi will sing for me. She has a melodious voice that has always delighted us and has influenced the writing of some of my texts. Similarly, the artist Abdulmajeed Abdullah has been a source of inspiration for me through his beautiful and enjoyable works, and I find his voice close to what I write.
