Long-standing Palestinian National Struggle for Freedom from Israeli Occupation Reflected in Literature

The enduring goal of the Palestinian national struggle has been to attain ultimate freedom from the illegal Israeli occupation, a journey documented in various forms, including literature. Several Palestinian writers have harnessed the power of words to combat Israeli oppression, making significant contributions to the cause. Notable among these writers are:

Edward Said (1935-2003): A Palestinian American academic, liberation activist, and literary critic, Said delved into literature through the lens of social and cultural politics. A staunch advocate for Palestinian rights and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, one of his pivotal works, “Orientalism” (1978), critiques the West’s historical, cultural, and political perceptions of the East, becoming a modern classic.

Mahmoud Darwish (1941-2008): Considered an “internal refugee,” Darwish spent years in exile in Beirut and Paris. Renowned for his over 30 works encompassing poetry and prose, Darwish earned accolades such as the Lannan Cultural Freedom Prize, the Lenin Peace Prize, and the Knight of Arts and Belles Letter’s Medal from France. His notable work includes “Why Did You Leave the Horse Alone?” (1995).

Ghada Karmi (1939-): Born in Jerusalem, Karmi was compelled to leave her home with her family due to Israel’s creation in 1948. After relocating to England in 1949, she practiced as a doctor and specialized in the health of migrants and refugees. Her work “In Search for Fatima: A Palestinian Story” (2002) is recognized as a significant portrayal of the Palestinian diaspora.

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