First literature festival attracts crowds in Dubai

Dubai: It will be a literally stimulating weekend ahead for the culture vultures of Dubai as curtains are raised for the first ever Emirates International Festival of Literature (EAIFL).

Officially launched at the Festival City on Thursday, the event will see more than 60 leading authors engage in a fascinating programme of dialogue, debate and discussion in the next four days.

The intellectual mood was set in at the inauguration ceremony at the Festival Sqaure where speakers reiterated the need to promote cultural dialogue and encourage reading among young generation.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Isobel Abulhoul, Festival Director, said a key focus of the festival is to encourage reading "by celebrating literature, engaging with audiences and allowing as many people as possible to discover the magic that is contained between two covers, and meet the wonderful people who wrote these books."

On his part, Mohammad Al Murr, Vice-Chairman, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority said: "The event is a great example for bridging countries of Asia, Europe and Africa; and what can be achieved through dialogue, tolerance and forgiveness."

A cultural kaleidoscope was also on display. Figures from various literary works joined a parade along with drummers, school children and emirati men on horse-back.

EAIFL is dubbed as the first true literary festival in the Middle East celebrating the world of books in all its infinite variety. Over 50 events are lined up for the festival. It features authors whose books range from some of the finest works of contemporary fiction, inspirational lifestyle titles, the magical worlds of children's fantasy and science fiction.

The audience will have the opportunity to listen to some of their favourite authors and participate in workshops. The landmark cultural event is also packed with an exciting line up of exclusive EAIFL book releases, in addition to savouring a rich showcase of the local talent in fringe activities.

Participating authors said they are looking forward to a lively interaction with their counterparts from across the world.

Jung Chang, a Chinese author, based in London said she is excited to have an Arab audience when she shares her experiences of cultural revolutions in Maoist China. Chang's Wild Swans is an international best-seller that traces three generations of women at the hands of Mao. "I am delighted to be here and meet authors from all over the world. I am looking forward to the enriching experience of exchanging dialogue," said Chang.

Alec Williams, a British story teller said the festival gives him a great opportunity to explore parallels of many stories that he tells in England and also trace slighty different versions of the same in the Arab world.

"Literature is about bringing minds together. And the panel sessions that are being held as part of the festival is a great sign of dialogue and bridging cultures," Williams added.

Much on similar lines, Fadhil Al Azzawi, the internationally acclaimed Iraqi poet and author, said the literature festival is a great platform for the East and the West to converge on a literary high point.