Iraqi writers mourn novelist Ahmed Khalaf, prominent 20th century literary figure

BAGHDAD – The General Union of Writers and Authors in Iraq announced on Monday the death of prominent Iraqi novelist and storywriter Ahmed Khalaf at the age of 82. Khalaf, born in the Al-Shinafiyah sub-district of Diwaniyah, leaves behind a literary legacy spanning decades.

In a statement, the union said, “The General Union of Writers and Authors in Iraq mourns the esteemed novelist and storywriter Ahmed Khalaf, who passed away on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, in Baghdad, leaving behind an extensive and important literary contribution.”

Khalaf is recognized as one of Iraq’s most prominent novelists of the 20th century and holds a distinguished position among contemporary Iraqi and Arab writers.

“Khalaf belonged to the 1960s storytelling generation, known for its pioneering uniqueness and postmodern influences, which cast their successful shadows on subsequent generations by establishing an aesthetic and creative system in the realms of narrative,” the statement added.

Born in 1943, Khalaf published his first short story, “Document of Silence,” was published in the Al-Jumhuriya newspaper’s literary supplement in 1966.

Between 1978 and 1985, he oversaw cultural sections in many of Iraq’s broadcasting and television institutions before transitioning to editorial work at the literary magazine Aqlam.

His first short story collection, “A Stroll in Abandoned Streets”, was published in 1974, followed by works such as “The Distant Arrival”, “The Dolls’ House”, “Screaming in a Box”, “Autumn of the Town”, “Sad Timur”, and “Rain at the End of the Night”.

Khalaf’s novels include “The Beautiful Ruin”, “Death of the Father”, “Bearer of Desire”, “The Great Dream”, and “Wolves at the Doors”.

His later works included “The Long Corridor” and “On the Way to You,” published by the Union of Writers.

The General Union of Writers described Khalaf’s death as a “significant loss” to the Iraqi and Arab literary community.