On October 8, 1973, during the third day of Egypt's historic crossing of the Suez Canal, a bold statement by esteemed writer Tawfiq al-Hakim appeared as the front-page editorial in Al-Ahram newspaper. Titled "We Have Crossed Defeat," the piece captured the nation's spirit and resilience. Al-Hakim, born in 1898 and passed away in 1987, was a prominent figure in Arabic literature. His article would go on to inspire one of the most iconic songs of Egypt's 1973 war victory.
The editorial caught the attention of composer Baligh Hamdi, who was moved by its powerful message. Hamdi, along with poet Abdel Rahman El Manouar, sought al-Hakim's permission to use the article's opening phrase as the lyrics for a new song. Al-Hakim agreed, especially upon learning that the legendary singer Shadia would perform it. The writer had been deeply affected by Egypt's 1967 defeat, but witnessing the 1973 crossing of the Suez Canal filled him with hope and pride.
In his editorial, al-Hakim wrote about the significance of Egypt's military action, describing it as a moment of rebirth and defiance. He stated that Egypt, despite appearances of weakness, possessed an unyielding spirit. The article's powerful message resonated with many, and its themes of resilience and determination continue to inspire Egyptians to this day. Al-Hakim's words played a significant role in galvanizing national pride during a pivotal moment in Egyptian history.
The song inspired by al-Hakim's article, also titled "We Have Crossed Defeat," became an enduring symbol of Egypt's victory in the 1973 war. Shadia's powerful vocals, combined with Hamdi's evocative melody, made the song an instant classic. The collaboration between al-Hakim, Hamdi, El Manouar, and Shadia resulted in a timeless piece that continues to evoke strong emotions in Egyptians.
For al-Hakim, the 1973 war marked a turning point in his life. Having been disheartened by Egypt's 1967 defeat, he found new hope and purpose in the nation's subsequent victory. His editorial, "We Have Crossed Defeat," encapsulated this shift in perspective, as he wrote about the importance of perseverance and the indomitable Egyptian spirit.
Al-Hakim's article emphasized that true victory lies not in material gains, but in the intangible qualities of courage, determination, and resilience. He argued that Egypt's real triumph was not solely in the military victory, but in the renewed sense of national pride and purpose that emerged in the aftermath of the war. This perspective has had a lasting impact on Egyptian literature and culture.
The legacy of al-Hakim's article and the song it inspired continues to be felt in Egypt today. As a testament to the power of art and literature to capture the essence of a nation's spirit, "We Have Crossed Defeat" remains an important part of Egypt's cultural heritage.
Key points
- The article "We Have Crossed Defeat" by Tawfiq al-Hakim was a powerful expression of Egypt's resilience and determination during the 1973 war.
- Al-Hakim's editorial inspired a timeless song that became an anthem for Egypt's October War victory.
- The song, performed by Shadia and composed by Baligh Hamdi, continues to evoke strong emotions in Egyptians and remains an important part of Egypt's cultural heritage.
