Joining the Omani Society for Writers: A literary journey unfolds
Oman has talented writers, translators, authors, and novelists who deserve support and motivation to shine globally
Published: 02:08 PM,Aug 04,2024 | EDITED : 06:08 PM,Aug 04,2024
Reading and writing have always been my sanctuary. In the pages of books, I discover new worlds and words, and through my writing, I create them. These hobbies bring me immense satisfaction, allowing me to explore the vast landscapes of imagination and knowledge.
A friend of mine suggested I join the Omani Society for Writers and Literature. While I appreciated the idea, I initially hesitated, wanting to carve my path in the literary field. However, the thought lingered.
After a productive meeting, I decided to visit their office at Muscat Hill. The welcoming atmosphere and a stimulating discussion with Said Al Saqlawi, the president of the Oman Association for Writers and Literati, about Arabic literature convinced me to join.
Completing the formalities was straightforward, and soon, I became a member. This decision opened up a new chapter in my literary journey. I immersed myself in world literature and translation, staying updated on the colourful activities of Omani poets, writers, and authors.
To my pleasant surprise, the Omani literary scene was far from empty. The association plays a significant role in the country, organising poetry nights, and encouraging students in the field of literature.
Omani authors and translators are actively engaged, contributing to the cultural richness of our society.
Despite its commendable efforts, the Oman Association for Writers and Literati faces challenges, particularly with its limited budget, which restricts the scope of large-scale literary events.
This is where the support of profit organisations through sponsorship, as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), becomes crucial.
The role of writers and literature in shaping societies cannot be overstated. Literature reflects societal values, norms, and issues, acting as both a mirror and a catalyst for change.
Through their creative expressions, writers have the power to influence public opinion, inspire movements, and foster a deeper understanding of the human condition.
As Eagleton (2008) posits, literature is a social institution inseparable from its historical context, capturing the spirit of the times and offering future generations a window into the past.
Literature is the spirit of society, with the economy as its body, and a positive bridge between the two is essential. Writers often use their expertise to advocate for social change.
Harriet Beecher Stowe's ‘Uncle Tom's Cabin’ is a classic example, credited with influencing public opinion on slavery in the United States and contributing to the abolitionist movement.
Academic research supports the notion that literature can inspire social change. A study by Kidd and Castano (2013) found that reading literary fiction improves empathy, a critical component of social change.
By stepping into the lives of diverse characters, readers develop a deeper understanding and compassion for others, which can translate into real-world actions.
According to McAdams (2006), narratives help individuals make sense of their lives and experiences. Through stories, people can explore different aspects of their identity, including race, gender, and sexuality.
Books like J K Rowling's ‘Harry Potter’ series and Angie Thomas' ‘The Hate U Give’ offer young readers characters and situations they can relate to, helping them navigate their own identities and the complexities of growing up. Bourdieu (1993) notes that writers possess cultural capital, allowing them to influence societal norms and values.
Economists and entrepreneurs should acknowledge that literature serves as a reflection of society, a tool for social change, a source of knowledge, and a means of identity formation. Writers, through their creative expressions, have the power to influence and inspire.
In Oman, we have talented writers, translators, authors, and novelists who deserve support and motivation to shine globally. By nurturing and promoting our literary talents, we not only preserve our cultural heritage but also contribute to the global literary landscape.
Joining the Omani Society for Writers and Literature has been a transformative experience. It has connected me with a community of like-minded individuals, all passionate about the power of words. Together, we can continue to enrich our society and make a lasting impact through the timeless art of literature.
Mohammed Anwar Al Balushi
Academic Lecturer and Advisor, Oman College of Management and Technology
A friend of mine suggested I join the Omani Society for Writers and Literature. While I appreciated the idea, I initially hesitated, wanting to carve my path in the literary field. However, the thought lingered.
After a productive meeting, I decided to visit their office at Muscat Hill. The welcoming atmosphere and a stimulating discussion with Said Al Saqlawi, the president of the Oman Association for Writers and Literati, about Arabic literature convinced me to join.
Completing the formalities was straightforward, and soon, I became a member. This decision opened up a new chapter in my literary journey. I immersed myself in world literature and translation, staying updated on the colourful activities of Omani poets, writers, and authors.
To my pleasant surprise, the Omani literary scene was far from empty. The association plays a significant role in the country, organising poetry nights, and encouraging students in the field of literature.
Omani authors and translators are actively engaged, contributing to the cultural richness of our society.
Despite its commendable efforts, the Oman Association for Writers and Literati faces challenges, particularly with its limited budget, which restricts the scope of large-scale literary events.
This is where the support of profit organisations through sponsorship, as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), becomes crucial.
The role of writers and literature in shaping societies cannot be overstated. Literature reflects societal values, norms, and issues, acting as both a mirror and a catalyst for change.
Through their creative expressions, writers have the power to influence public opinion, inspire movements, and foster a deeper understanding of the human condition.
As Eagleton (2008) posits, literature is a social institution inseparable from its historical context, capturing the spirit of the times and offering future generations a window into the past.
Literature is the spirit of society, with the economy as its body, and a positive bridge between the two is essential. Writers often use their expertise to advocate for social change.
Harriet Beecher Stowe's ‘Uncle Tom's Cabin’ is a classic example, credited with influencing public opinion on slavery in the United States and contributing to the abolitionist movement.
Academic research supports the notion that literature can inspire social change. A study by Kidd and Castano (2013) found that reading literary fiction improves empathy, a critical component of social change.
By stepping into the lives of diverse characters, readers develop a deeper understanding and compassion for others, which can translate into real-world actions.
According to McAdams (2006), narratives help individuals make sense of their lives and experiences. Through stories, people can explore different aspects of their identity, including race, gender, and sexuality.
Books like J K Rowling's ‘Harry Potter’ series and Angie Thomas' ‘The Hate U Give’ offer young readers characters and situations they can relate to, helping them navigate their own identities and the complexities of growing up. Bourdieu (1993) notes that writers possess cultural capital, allowing them to influence societal norms and values.
Economists and entrepreneurs should acknowledge that literature serves as a reflection of society, a tool for social change, a source of knowledge, and a means of identity formation. Writers, through their creative expressions, have the power to influence and inspire.
In Oman, we have talented writers, translators, authors, and novelists who deserve support and motivation to shine globally. By nurturing and promoting our literary talents, we not only preserve our cultural heritage but also contribute to the global literary landscape.
Joining the Omani Society for Writers and Literature has been a transformative experience. It has connected me with a community of like-minded individuals, all passionate about the power of words. Together, we can continue to enrich our society and make a lasting impact through the timeless art of literature.
Mohammed Anwar Al Balushi
Academic Lecturer and Advisor, Oman College of Management and Technology