The book, written by Hala Takkali, was launched at a literary event held at the Maison du roman in Tunis' Cité de la culture on October 30, 2026. The event, attended by writers, artists, and readers, was organized by the Tunisian News Agency (TAP). The book is a biographical novel that explores Chebbi's life and personality beyond his famous poems. Published in 2026, the book aims to introduce Chebbi's work to a new audience.
Abou el Kacem Chebbi, born in 1909 in Tozeur, Tunisia, was a prominent figure in modern Tunisian and Arabic poetry. He died at the age of 25 in 1934, but his work continues to inspire generations. Chebbi's poetry is characterized by its focus on romanticism, nature, and the human condition. His most famous poem, "La Volonté de vivre" (Irâdat al-Hayât), has become an iconic representation of the aspiration for freedom and change.
One of the unique features of Takkali's book is its artistic dimension. The book includes 47 calligraphic plates of Chebbi's poems, created by Tunisian artist Omar Jomni. This fusion of poetry and calligraphy drew attention from attendees during the book launch event. The event also featured presentations by Dorra Lassoued, Noureddine Souih, and Mohamed Touihri, who offered different interpretations of Takkali's work.
Hala Takkali, a university English teacher and writer, aims to promote Tunisian literary heritage through her work. By writing in French, she hopes to reach a broader audience and offer new perspectives on Chebbi's life and work. Takkali's book is part of a larger effort to preserve and promote Tunisia's cultural legacy. Her work has been recognized as a valuable contribution to the country's literary scene.
Chebbi's legacy extends beyond his poetry. His famous line, "Si le peuple un jour veut la vie…," has become a symbol of the aspiration for freedom and change. His work has also been incorporated into Tunisia's national anthem. Despite his short life, Chebbi left a lasting impact on Arabic literature. His poetry collections, such as "Les Chants de la vie" (Aghani al-Hayat), continue to be studied and celebrated.
The book launch event was a testament to the enduring interest in Chebbi's work. The event brought together literature enthusiasts, writers, and artists to discuss Takkali's book and its significance. As a prominent figure in Tunisian literature, Chebbi's work continues to inspire new generations of readers and writers. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of poetry to express the human experience.
Key points
- The book "Abou el Kacem Chebbi: L'itinéraire d'un poète visionnaire" offers a fresh perspective on the life of the renowned Tunisian poet.
