Ahlam Mosteghanemi: The Key to Sharjah’s Success Is the Affection of Its People
Ahlam Mosteghanemi at the Sharjah International Book Fair: A Celebration of Love and Creativity
In a celebration of literary excellence and a reaffirmation of the deep-rooted love for literature within the emirate, Ahlam Mosteghanemi, the celebrated Algerian author, expressed her profound joy at being honored at the recent Sharjah International Book Fair. Mosteghanemi, who is recognized for her eloquent prose and the poignant exploration of themes such as identity and memory, described the annual event as a “charge of love,” underscoring both the warm reception of attendees and the cultural significance of the fair to the region. The smiles and happiness exhibited by visitors, she argues, reflect Sharjah’s true success and vitality, transcending any mere statistic associated with attendance or sales.
The Sharjah International Book Fair has firmly established itself as a pivotal event in the literary calendar, attracting authors, publishers, and book lovers from around the world. It stands as a testament to the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to promoting culture and education, particularly in a region often defined by its rapid economic development. The fair not only emphasizes the importance of books and reading but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among its diverse participants.
In a thought-provoking session titled “Do Social Media Platforms Serve or Undermine Creativity?” Mosteghanemi engaged the audience in a critical discussion regarding the dual nature of social media’s impact on contemporary literature. While these platforms undoubtedly offer emerging writers unprecedented opportunities for visibility and engagement with their audiences, she highlighted a troubling paradox: the very tools that enable promotion may also detract from the time and focus necessary for genuine creative work.
Mosteghanemi’s insights resonate deeply within the current literary landscape, where the demands of maintaining an active social media presence often collide with the introspective nature of writing. Today’s authors, she pointed out, find themselves in a relentless race to capture the attention of readers, who are bombarded with an overwhelming array of content across various channels. This competition for visibility can divert important mental resources away from the creative process, compelling writers to prioritize engagement over artistry.
The author reminded her audience that, beneath the surface of clicks and likes, there lies a profound need for authenticity in storytelling. It is crucial that writers remain committed to their craft, striving to create work that is meaningful and original rather than merely conforming to the fleeting trends of social media. Mosteghanemi’s reflections evoke a sense of urgency in the literary community to balance promotion with the integrity of the creative process.
Mosteghanemi also emphasized the emotional labor that comes with sustaining an online presence. Writers today are not only tasked with producing their literary works but are also expected to maintain a narrative that engages their audience in real time. The pressure to be constantly ‘on’ can dilute the essence of creativity, as artists may feel compelled to filter their thoughts and inspirations through the lens of public opinion rather than allowing their work to emerge organically.
As she concluded her session, Mosteghanemi invoked a call to action for both writers and readers to foster environments that nurture creativity rather than inhibit it. By prioritizing authentic connections and valuing the essence of storytelling, the literary community can continue to thrive, ensuring that literature remains a vibrant force in society.
In light of the Sharjah International Book Fair’s robust commitment to literature, culture, and the arts, Ahlam Mosteghanemi’s reflections highlight the evolving relationship between technology and creativity. Her eloquent observations remind us that, while the digital age presents new opportunities, it also poses challenges that must be navigated with care and mindfulness. In an era marked by rapid change, the core tenets of the literary craft must be preserved, ensuring that the love for storytelling endures across generations.
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