On the sidelines of the Cairo International Book Fair (CIBF) , one of the Arab world’s most prominent cultural events, we spoke with Dr. Mervat Dahan, a veteran Syrian writer and journalist, who is participating this year as a representative of "Kalima Publishing House", a regular participant in the fair since 2021.
In this interview, Dr. Dahan reflects on her literary journey, her experience in Cairo, and her key publications, including her work on poet Nizar Qabbani.
Q: Dr. Mervat, how do you assess your participation in this edition of the Cairo International Book Fair?
Dr. Dahan: The Cairo International Book Fair occupies a special place on the Arab cultural map. It is not merely a space for showcasing books, but a forum for dialogue between writers, publishers, and readers from across the region. Kalima Publishing House has been keen to participate since 2021 because the fair offers a serious cultural platform and direct engagement with a wide and diverse audience.
Q: You are a Syrian writer and journalist who has lived in Cairo. How did this experience influence your relationship with Arab literature and culture?
Dr. Dahan: Living in Cairo had a profound impact on my cultural and intellectual formation. I was already deeply interested in Arab literature and poetry, but Cairo transformed that interest into a lived experience. The city’s rich literary life, its institutions, and its openness to debate helped shape my critical vision and strengthened my connection to the broader Arab cultural scene.
Q: You worked extensively in cultural journalism, particularly with Al Qahera Cultural Newspaper, affiliated with the Egyptian Ministry of Culture. What did this experience add to your career?
Dr. Dahan: My work at Al Qahera Cultural Newspaper was a decisive stage in my professional journey. It was a serious cultural platform that allowed me to engage closely with writers, critics, and artists from Egypt and the Arab world. The experience reinforced my belief in the role of cultural journalism as a bridge between creative production and the public, and as a space for thoughtful analysis rather than superficial coverage.
Q: Among your notable works is your book on the late poet Nizar Qabbani. What prompted you to focus on this iconic figure?
Dr. Dahan: Nizar Qabbani is often remembered primarily as the poet of love, but his political and national poetry is equally important. In my book, I sought to highlight his engagement with public issues, particularly his stance on the Palestinian cause and his response to major political turning points in the Arab world. My aim was to offer a more comprehensive reading of his poetic experience, one that reflects both its emotional depth and its political awareness.
Q: You also published the book written by Waal Abdlatif titled Dawoud Abdel Salam. What is the significance of this work?
Dr. Dahan: Publishing works like Dawoud Abdel Salam is part of preserving cultural memory and documenting the journey of prominent artistic figures. The book, written by Waal Abdlatif, offers an important narrative about the life and work of the director Dawoud Abdel Salam. I believe such works contribute to the cultural archive and help younger generations understand the evolution of Arab cinema and arts.
Q: In your view, do book fairs still play an important role amid digital transformation?
Dr. Dahan: Absolutely. Despite the spread of digital platforms, book fairs remain vital cultural spaces. They offer direct interaction between writers and readers, encourage dialogue, and create opportunities for discovery that cannot be fully replicated online. The Cairo International Book Fair, in particular, continues to be a meeting point for generations and cultures.
Q: Finally, what advice would you give to young Arab writers and journalists?
Dr. Dahan: I would advise them to read deeply, write honestly, and remain patient. Writing is a long journey that requires discipline and responsibility toward language and ideas. Our cultural scene needs new voices, but it also needs seriousness, commitment, and respect for the reader.
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