Omani poets reflect on identity, digital change for World Poetry Day

MUSCAT: As the world marked World Poetry Day, designated by Unesco, Omani poets and writers reflected on poetry’s enduring role as a vessel of cultural identity, a voice of conscience and a powerful medium for human expression.
Celebrated annually on March 21, the occasion highlights poetry’s unique ability to transcend boundaries, connect cultures and articulate the depth of human experience, even amid rapid global transformations that are reshaping modes of expression and reception.
Poet Wafaa bint Hilal al Busaidy underscored poetry’s capacity to distil complex human emotions into evocative language, describing it as a medium that 'touches hearts' while addressing universal themes such as identity, justice and belonging. She noted that poetry in Oman remains deeply rooted in heritage, reflecting social values and traditions while strengthening individuals’ connection to their cultural roots.

At the same time, she pointed out that digital platforms have transformed the poetic landscape by enabling wider and faster dissemination, though often at the cost of depth, with some contemporary texts characterised by brevity and immediacy rather than layered expression. Despite this, she stressed that poetry has not declined, but rather evolved in form and reach.
Echoing similar sentiments, poet Talal al Salti described poetry as an enduring expression of humanity, capable of conveying noble values such as honesty, integrity and pride. He highlighted its ability to resonate deeply within the emotional and psychological realms, extending beyond mere intellectual engagement.
He noted that while digital transformation has made poetry more accessible than ever, it has also introduced challenges related to maintaining quality amid the pressures of instant publication and continuous audience engagement.
Meanwhile, Younis bin Marhoon al Busaidy observed that contemporary poetry is at a critical juncture, navigating between modernist experimentation and traditional forms. He pointed to the rise of ‘consumer-driven’ content on digital platforms, which competes with other media formats such as video and podcasts, potentially affecting poetry’s standing among audiences.

He emphasised that the challenge lies not only in preserving poetic quality but also in maintaining the essence of the poetic experience in an age of rapid consumption.
For his part, Ahmed bin Mohammed al Shueili highlighted poetry’s timeless role as a guardian of truth and a reflection of human conscience. He noted that poetry’s metaphorical richness allows it to express complex realities that may be difficult to articulate directly, making it a powerful tool for defending values and shaping societal awareness.
He further stressed that Omani poetry draws strength from the country’s unique cultural and geographical landscape, embedding elements of place, tradition and identity within its imagery and language.
Across these perspectives, a common thread emerged: while digital transformation has expanded poetry’s reach and accessibility, it has also introduced new challenges related to authenticity, quality and audience engagement.
Yet, despite these shifts, poetry continues to endure as a vital cultural force— preserving memory, articulating identity and offering a profound reflection of the human condition in an ever-changing world. — ONA