Beirut: As part of its participation in the 66th Beirut Arab International Book Fair, AUB Press hosted an enriching panel discussion with Dr. Jokha Alharithi, renowned Omani novelist, moderated by student Rana Roukoz. The event was supported by the Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Chair and organized in collaboration with the Center for Arts and Humanities at the American University of Beirut (AUB).
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the conversation highlighted Jokha Alharithi's literary and academic experience, as she was the first Arab writer to win the Man Booker International Prize for her novel "Celestial Bodies." It also touched on her other works, such as "The Silk of the Gazelle" and "The Bitter Orange." Roukoz's questions focused on the relationship between Alharithi's academic background and the formation of her narrative worlds, as well as the influence of Omani culture on her fictional characters.
The discussion was distinguished by its exploration of the narrative peculiarities of Alharithi's worlds, in terms of non-linear construction, multiple voices, and the use of individual and collective memory. The philosophical and existential approach also emerged as a key element in her works, alongside a contemplative poetic language that expresses the depth of her experience.
Regarding the relationship between her academic background and her fictional world, Alharithi spoke at length about the family influence in shaping her literary taste. She shared her experience growing up in a literature-passionate family, mentioning her grandfather, Ahmed bin Abdullah Alharithi, a classical poet in Oman. She recounted how compiling and editing his collection of poems took a decade and influenced her literary journey.
From this deep affiliation with poetry, she set out to build her novelistic worlds, without separating the two literary genres. She concluded by saying that she initially hesitated to incorporate poetry into her novel, but reading Elias Khoury's work encouraged her. She realized that blending poetry with narrative could enhance her storytelling.
The dialogue included bilateral readings between Alharithi and Roukoz of selected excerpts from the author's works, blending poetry and prose. At the end of the meeting, the audience posed a series of questions to the guest, addressing issues of identity, narrative, and place in the modern Arabic novel.
Visit "AUB Press" on YouTube to watch the full discussion.