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Dr Abdullah Ibrahim, Professor of Narrative Studies, delivered the lecture, moderated by Dr Saleh Huwaidi. Dr Omar Abdul Aziz, Chairman of the Club’s Board of Directors, and other literary figures were also present. Dr Huwaidi highlighted Dr Ibrahim’s distinguished career, including his work in Iraq and Libya, his publications, and awards such as the King Faisal International Prize in Literature and the Sheikh Zayed Book Award.
Dr Ibrahim opened by emphasising the reciprocal relationship between cultural phenomena and their concepts. He argued that the study of Arabic narrative has often been hindered by the imposition of foreign concepts, which fail to reflect its true nature. Research on Arabic narrative should adopt its authentic concepts to reveal its unique aesthetic, mechanisms, and heritage.
He explained that in Arabic, the term narrative refers to "weaving words and perfecting their composition," symbolising excellence in conveying information. This authentic understanding has often been overshadowed by Western terminology, despite narrative being central to Arabic culture.
Dr Ibrahim highlighted that the Holy Quran and Hadith are exemplary models of Arabic narrative. Over time, Arabic culture produced diverse narratives, including biographies, historical accounts, travelogues, and literary works. He noted that pre-Islamic narratives shaped Arab beliefs and culture but were largely replaced by poetry and Islamic teachings.
Dr. Ibrahim concluded that while Western narrative concepts can be referenced, they should not dominate or redefine Arabic narrative. Imposing foreign frameworks risks erasing the originality and critical depth of Arabic literature, hindering the development of a robust Arabic critical tradition.
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