University of Basra opens literary forum honoring poet Mahmoud Al-Breikan

BASRA — The University of Basra on Wednesday hosted the opening of the “Al-Breikan Literary Forum,” organized by the General Union of Writers in Iraq to celebrate the publication of the complete poetic works of late Basra-born poet Mahmoud Al-Breikan.

Held in the College of Arts hall, the event drew a wide audience of political, academic, and cultural figures, including Basra Governor Asaad Al-Eidani, students, and members of the literary community.

“This conference embodies Basra’s loyalty to its great poet and recognition of his creative achievement,” Al-Eidani said during the opening ceremony.

Al-Breikan, born in 1931 and killed in 2002, was among Iraq’s most influential modern poets. His introspective, experimental style earned him a lasting place in Iraqi literary history.

Aref Al-Saadi, head of the Writers Union, said, “Al-Breikan stands at the forefront of Iraqi creators. He represents a unique poetic phenomenon in contemporary Iraqi poetry, distinguished by his diverse cultural background and singular poetic temperament.”

Dr. Majid Al-Kaabi, dean of the College of Arts, said the forum celebrated not only Al-Breikan’s poetic achievements but also the “renewed human spirit and thought carried in his texts,” adding that the university remains committed to supporting Iraq’s cultural and intellectual life.

The event featured a theatrical reading of Al-Breikan’s poetry by artist Aziz Khiyon and the screening of a documentary titled “The Lost Dream,” chronicling the poet’s personal, cultural, and academic journey.

Poet Talib Abdul Aziz, representing the committee overseeing Al-Breikan’s collected works, said the poet’s writing offered “a window into life’s mysterious and profound dimensions.” He added, “With his unique lexicon, we see life through unfamiliar and layered images.”