The Dean Abbas Mahmoud Al-Aqqad
was a prominent Egyptian writer, thinker, journalist, and poet
Abbas Mahmoud Al-Aqqad
Abbas Mahmoud Al-Aqqad (1889 – 1964) was a prominent Egyptian writer, thinker, journalist, and poet, born in Aswan on June 28, 1889. Al-Aqqad is recognized as one of the key figures in Egyptian literary and political life, having served as a member of the Egyptian Parliament and a member of the Arabic Language Academy. Despite the harsh circumstances he faced, he continued to produce literary works, writing articles for the magazine Fusul and translating various topics. He is considered one of the most important writers of the twentieth century in Egypt, contributing over a hundred books in various fields to the Arabic library.
Literary Career
Al-Aqqad was known for his prolific literary output, showcasing his ability to write in both poetry and prose. His encyclopedic knowledge garnered admiration, as he read widely in areas such as history, philosophy, literature, and sociology. He was also famous for his literary and intellectual battles with notable figures like poet Ahmad Shawqi, Taha Hussein, Mustafa Sadiq Al-Rafi'i, and Dr. Aisha Abd al-Rahman (Bint al-Shati).
Personal Life
Al-Aqqad was born to an Egyptian father and a mother of Kurdish descent. His education was limited to the elementary level due to the lack of modern schools in Aswan. Nevertheless, he relied on his sharp intelligence and perseverance to become a uniquely cultured individual. He mastered the English language through interactions with tourists in Luxor and Aswan, which allowed him to explore diverse cultures.
After moving to Cairo, he worked in journalism and learned under the thinker and poet Dr. Mohamed Hussein. Along with Ibrahim Al-Mazni and Abdul Rahman Shukri, he founded the Diwan School, which advocated for innovation in poetry. Al-Aqqad held various jobs, including in a silk factory in Damietta and in the railways, despite not receiving a higher education.
Abbas Mahmoud Al-Aqqad passed away on March 12, 1964, and he never married throughout his life. His works and contributions to literature and thought continue to testify to his significant influence on Egyptian and Arab cultural life.