Following death earlier this year

‘A blessed session’: Baghdad memorial honors late Iraqi novelist Ahmed Khalaf

BAGHDAD — A commemorative session held on Al-Mutanabbi Street honored the life and work of Iraqi novelist and writer Ahmed Khalaf, who died Jan. 6 at age 82. The event, organized by the Al-Mada Foundation for Culture and Arts, drew literary critics, cultural enthusiasts and those who knew Khalaf best, including his son. Novelist Khudair Al-Zaydi served as host.

Khalaf, born in 1943 in the Al-Shinafiyah subdistrict of Diwaniyah, was considered one of Iraq’s most prominent 20th century novelists. His literary career began with the short story collection “A Stroll in Abandoned Streets,” published in 1974, followed by titles 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.” He also wrote novels including “The Beautiful Ruin,” “Death of the Father,” “Bearer of Desire,” “The Great Dream” and “Wolves at the Doors.”

In an interview with 964media, his son, Haider Ahmed Khalaf, recalled the writer’s final days. “The last moments are unforgettable—they were the hardest,” he said. “In his final days, despite brief signs of recovery, I could see death approaching.”

He added that the family would plan a formal tribute to Khalaf’s legacy after observing the traditional mourning period. Khalaf left behind a trove of manuscripts, memoirs and photographs highlighting his deep historical connections.

Omar Al-Saray, secretary-general of the Iraqi Writers Union, described the memorial as “a blessed session filled with the spirit of the great storyteller and novelist Ahmed Khalaf.” Al-Saray, a friend of Khalaf, said writers, colleagues and companions shared memories, stories and insights about his creativity.

“This gave the session an immense sense of intimacy,” Al-Saray added, “as if you were sitting face-to-face with Ahmed Khalaf.”