The Reading Text 22 Forum in Jeddah continued its activities, transforming the fourth session into a workshop aimed at reshaping the relationship between Saudi text and the major transformations in the Kingdom. Under the direction of Ali Al-Zubaidi, it was emphasized that literature is not merely a mirror of reality but a partner in its creation.
Dr. Mansoor Al-Mahous opened the session with a reflective pause on environmental literature, warning against the confusion between the traditional description of nature and sustainability literature. Al-Mahous called for Saudi creators to transition from being mere 'describers' to 'partners', boldly questioning whether our literature has managed to bridge the gap between emotional feelings towards the environment and genuine creative behavior. He concluded with an ambitious vision calling for the establishment of an Environmental Literature Association to serve as an umbrella that transforms climate and earth issues into timeless texts that align with the Green Saudi Initiative.
Event Details
In the context of digital transformations, Dr. Ahmed Al-Yetimi traced the migration of poetry from the pages of books to the realm of podcasts, using the experience of Asmar as a model. Al-Yetimi did not see this transformation as merely a change in medium but observed a sociological shift in 'taste', where literature has become accessible, interactive, and transcending traditional barriers, reflecting the flexibility of Saudi culture in embracing digital tools.
Meanwhile, Dr. Monah Al-Ghamdi gave the place its unique voice, affirming that Saudi cities in contemporary novels are no longer silent backgrounds but have transformed into living entities that reflect aspects of identity and belonging. From interrogating memory to envisioning the future through science fiction, Al-Ghamdi illustrated how place has become a tool for cultural and tourism promotion, evolving into a digital dimension that embodies the future aspirations of Saudi cities.
Background & Context
Researcher Faisal Al-Sarhan concluded the session with a deep reading of historical novels, explaining how Vision 2030 has redefined the traditional disconnect with history as static facts, transforming it into a fertile ground for producing meaning and determining national identity. Al-Sarhan pointed out that the contemporary Saudi novelist is no longer just a 'transmitter' of historical news but has become a 'creator' of discourse, leveraging major intersections of vision to build literary works that transcend the boundaries of time.
This is a moment of creative 'engagement' with reality; where the Saudi intellectual no longer settles for reading but is now drafting the future in the language of sustainability, digital techniques, and historical depth.
Impact & Consequences
The significance of these transformations in Saudi literature lies in their ability to influence society, as writers address contemporary issues through texts that reflect challenges and hopes. This shift also mirrors the interaction of Saudi culture with global transformations, contributing to the enhancement of national identity.
Moreover, these initiatives reinforce the role of literature as a means of expressing social and environmental issues, contributing to shaping public awareness about the importance of sustainability and environmental preservation.
Regional Significance
These transformations in Saudi literature serve as a model in the Arab region, potentially inspiring writers in other countries to adopt new styles that reflect their realities and aspirations. Enhancing literature as a means of social and cultural change can contribute to building more aware and engaged communities with their issues.
In conclusion, the Reading Text 22 Forum in Jeddah represents an important step towards redefining Saudi literature in light of major transformations, reflecting the Kingdom's ambitions to achieve Vision 2030.