Synopsis
of the keynote address delivered by M. R. Mohamed of University of Colombo, on
30.05.98 at the Arafa National College in Weligama on the occasion of the
prize-giving ceremony for winners in the Essay Competition
A
writer is a creator of poems, essays, short stories and plays, giving new form
to his feelings and thoughts. His community, the times of his life, the
problems he faced and the experiences he gained are reflected in his ideas. He
always becomes ineligible to express his ideas in an existence beyond his
community. There are limits to his wide thoughts and experiences. Research and
reading extend these limits.
Compositions, essays and creative
writings should not merely treat events sequentially, but convey new substance
or a new message to the community. These will enhance the knowledge and
abilities of a particular community, and preserve them from the ravages of
time. It would be beneficial if these new creative writings become instrumental
in the rehabilitation of decaying and devastated communities.
Likewise, every intellectual and
literary master would be attracted in some manner by social, religious, political
and economic conceptions. It would be difficult for any creative writer to
preserve the uniqueness of his creation without traversing philosophies,
principles and doctrines.
However, he cannot help but express
them. For example, the poems of the great poet Allama Iqbal inspire
Islamic, social and spiritual consciousness and exude divine essence.
On the one hand, a section quoting the
Al-Qur’an and hadith, in order that Islamic principles reach the
community, may be observed. On the other hand, another section may be seen to
convey Islamic thoughts to the community simply and subtly through literary
productions such as short stories, plays and artwork. In today’s changing
world, and in an environment where many ethnic communities live together, the
second category is regarded as stronger. But if they lack an Islamic outlook
and vision, their productions may be seem to become controversial and
valueless.
There are two basic forces that guide
man. The first is ‘feelings’ and the other is ‘thought’. Man largely lives in
slavery to emotions. Only a few among them are attracted by ideas based on
thought, control emotions and succeed in life. It is worrisome that even those
who hold high positions are enslaved by emotions and neglect humanity,
magnanimity, humility and patience. They become influenced by racial, religious
and regional differences, enmity and intolerance, and live as uncivilized men.
Those with knowledge and ability must help the others to lead a good life.
Literary masters like the great poet Allama Iqbal, who composed poems in
accordance with this precept, must arise.
In his words:
“Relishing art is estimable
But worthless is the creation devoid of
truth”
“Valueless is the verse of the poet,
or the melody of the musician,
Or the breeze that impairs a garden”
“The object of art is attaining the
brilliance of eternal life”
Wasallam - by; Mohamed
Rahumathulla Mohamed
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