Nouri al-Jarrah is a Syrian poet whose work delves deeply into the Arab cultural landscape. His poetry, often informed by his journalistic endeavors and his interest in geographical literature, explores themes of identity and journey. Al-Jarrah's collections of poetry and his editorial work on a literary magazine demonstrate a commitment to fostering and disseminating Arabic literary works. Through his distinctive voice, he contributes to contemporary Arab literary discourse, inviting readers to explore the rich traditions and modern challenges of the Arab world.
Syrian poet Nouri al-Jarrah brings to life an ancient story after a single line in Aramaic on a tombstone fired his imagination. His epic poem awakens two lovers, Barates, a Syrian from Palmyra, and Regina, the Celtic slave he freed and married, from where they have lain at rest beside Hadrian's Wall for eighteen centuries, and tells their tale.
A Boat to Lesbos, by Syrian poet Nouri al-Jarrah, was written as Syrian refugees endured frightening journeys across the Mediterranean before arriving on the small island. Set out like a Greek tragedy, it is dramatic witness to the horrors and ravages they suffered, seen through the eye of history, the poetry of Sappho and the travels of Odysseus.