Abu Nuwas translated wine poetry collection will be published

CAIRO – 25 November 2017: The first proper English translation for Abu Nuwas’ wine poems “Khamriyat” will be released next month by author and researcher Alex Rowell.

Wine poetry is a genre of Arab poetry dedicated to praise wine or beer. It firstly appeared during pre-Islam era by iconic Arab poets such as Antara Ibn Shadad, and Abi Abbad Amr Ibn Kalthoum.

But, during Islamic state era, the Muslim Arab poets focused only on praise, pride, religion, love and satire.

Abu Nawas was Arabic/Persian poet who became one of the iconic symbols of Abbasid poetry.

Preferring Wine to Hajj, he was known for other controversial themes, such as women and their physical appearance.

Showing passion to poetry, Abu Nuwas kept attending poetry lectures, and reciting numerous classic poems until he became capable of composing poetry.

Abu Nuwas depended on familiar proper rhyming words, simple poetic structure, and understandable concepts. He also wrote under various poetic themes, such as praising kings, the beauty of woman, pride, and passion.

Mostly of his work was dedicated to wine, as he aimed to rebel against traditional poetic themes.

Before his death, many researchers confirmed that he repented to God and composed religious spiritual poetry.

It was not until after his death that his poems were collected into one volume.