Nizar Qabbani Poems in Arabic with English Translation

Nizar Qabbani was a prominent Syrian poet whose work is celebrated for its passionate and sensual expression of love and activism. His poems are characterized by their vivid imagery, emotional depth, and powerful message. Qabbani's poems have been translated into numerous languages, including English, making his work accessible to a wider audience.

The Poet

Nizar Qabbani was born in Damascus, Syria in 1923. He was a diplomat by profession, which allowed him to travel extensively and experience different cultures. This exposure to diverse civilizations greatly influenced his poetry, as he drew inspiration from the beauty of the Arab world and its people.

Qabbani's work often explores themes of love, loss, and the struggle for freedom and justice. His poetry is known for its bold and unapologetic critique of societal norms and traditions, particularly in relation to women's rights and gender equality.

Love Poems

One of Nizar Qabbani's most famous themes is love, which he explores in a passionate and sensual manner. His poems capture the intense emotions and desires that come with loving someone deeply. Here are a few examples of his love poems in Arabic with English translation:

قصيدة حب
أنا الذي نظر العشق إلى عينيك
صارت خدودي سفينة تجري في فمك

Translation:
Love Poem
I, who looked at love in your eyes
My cheeks have become a ship sailing in your mouth

قصيدة حب أخرى
أحبكَ بكل الواني
أحبكَ في الصخب والهدوء
أحبكَ في الليل والنهار
وأحبك بين السطور والسطور

Translation:
Another Love Poem
I love you in all my colors
I love you in noise and quiet
I love you at night and day
And I love you between the lines and the lines

Activism Poems

In addition to love poems, Nizar Qabbani also wrote powerful activism poems that called for social change and justice. His words were a rallying cry for the oppressed and marginalized, urging them to stand up and demand their rights. Here is an example of one of his activism poems in Arabic with English translation:

قصيدة للتغيير
يا من تحمل شظايا الحروب
اقتحم باب الثورة
انهض يا ابن العالم
قد حان الوقت للتغيير

Translation:
Poem for Change
You who bear the shards of wars
Break through the door of revolution
Rise up, son of the world
The time has come for change

Nizar Qabbani's poems in Arabic are a testament to his talent as a poet and his commitment to social justice. His work continues to resonate with readers around the world, who are moved by the beauty and power of his words. Through his poetry, Qabbani has left a lasting impact on the literary world and inspired generations of writers to come.