Marrakech – Participants in a round table organized on Saturday in the Red City, within the framework of the third edition of the Marrakech African Book Festival, highlighted the essential role of poetry as a refuge for the soul and a source of inspiration.

Poets and writers shared their thoughts on the power of the genre of poetry where words transcend borders and touch hearts. They celebrated the poetic poem not only as an art but also as a source of life and a space for freedom where feelings and universal values intersect.

Ananda Devi, the writer from Mauritius, highlighted that poetry is considered a refuge and a source of comfort capable of giving a new breath, emphasizing the ability of this literary genre to reveal deep and universal truths.

After citing the poetry of the famous Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, the writer pointed out that poetry, like music, gives wings and constitutes a means to mobilize spirits and transcend borders.

For his part, Marc Alexandre Oho Bambe, the Cameroonian poet, emphasized that poetry is considered a passion and a necessity that nourishes the soul, stressing the importance of reading to discover worlds rich in meanings.

He pointed out that “poetry is a voice and a path”, highlighting that poetic expression helps to “live in a phase with oneself”. He also highlighted the power of poetry as a means of personal expression and internal communication.

For her part, Rim Battal, the Moroccan artist and poet, emphasized that poetry is considered a means to transmit values and share moments of beauty, pointing out that it allows for the expression of feelings and thoughts.

She also highlighted the role of women as muses for poets, and considered that women establish sources of inspiration through their strength and experience to enrich poetry with their presence, voice, and unique view of the world.

On the other hand, the Moroccan writer, Kebir Mustapha Ammi, emphasized that poets have always constituted essential voices for him. He explained that he is always inspired by poetry, and finds in words a source of inspiration and reflection.

He also expressed his great appreciation for poets, recalling in this context prominent names such as Arthur Rimbaud, Aimé Césaire, Léopold Sédar Senghor, and René Char, whose works deeply influenced his literary sensitivity and vision of the world.

The Marrakech African Book Festival, organized by the “We Art Africa” association until February 2, aims to celebrate African literature and culture.

This cultural event, which has become a distinctive cultural event, aims to contribute to the cultural and artistic influence in Africa by highlighting the richness of its literature and arts.