Introduction

Every poetry enthusiast, young or old, knows the name Khaled Mattawa. Born in Benghazi, Libya, Khaled started writing poetry when he was just 14 years old and went on to be recognized as one of the greatest poets of our time. He is also known for his incredible translations of Arabic literature into English. As millions of people around the world are celebrating National Poetry Month in April, it’s time to take a closer look at the life and work of Khaled Mattawa.

1. Khaled Mattawa was born in Libya

Khaled Mattawa was born in Benghazi, Libya, in 1964, and spent most of his childhood there. His family moved to the United States when he was 15 years old, and he attended universities in the US, earning degrees from the University of Tennessee and Indiana University. His upbringing in Libya and his experiences in the US have influenced his poetry, which often explores themes of identity, politics, and belonging.

2. Khaled Mattawa is a well-known translator

Khaled Mattawa is not only a celebrated poet, but also an accomplished translator of Arabic literature into English. He has translated works by contemporary Arab poets, as well as classics like “One Thousand and One Nights.” His translations have received critical acclaim, and he has received numerous awards for his work as a translator.

3. Khaled Mattawa is a professor

In addition to his work as a poet and translator, Khaled Mattawa is also a professor of English and Creative Writing at the University of Michigan. He has been a faculty member there since 1999 and has taught courses in poetry, translation, and literature.

4. Khaled Mattawa has won many awards

Khaled Mattawa has won numerous awards for his poetry and translations. Some of the most notable include the Academy of American Poets Fellowship, the PEN America Translation Award, and the NEA Literature Fellowship in Poetry. In 2014, he was also awarded a prestigious MacArthur Genius Grant for his contributions to the literary world.

5. Khaled Mattawa’s poetry is often politically charged

Khaled Mattawa’s poetry often explores political themes, especially those related to Libya and the Arab world. His poetry has been described as “uncompromising” and “provocative,” and it often challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the world we live in.

6. Khaled Mattawa has published several books of poetry

Over the course of his career, Khaled Mattawa has published several books of poetry, including “Tocqueville,” “Amorisco,” and “Mahmoud Darwish: The Poet’s Art and His Nation.” His poetry has been widely praised for its lyrical beauty, deep insight, and emotional resonance.

7. Khaled Mattawa is an advocate for writers

As an accomplished writer and professor, Khaled Mattawa is also an advocate for other writers. He has served as a judge for several writing competitions and has been a guest editor for literary magazines. He is committed to supporting and promoting the work of emerging writers, especially those from underrepresented communities.

8. Khaled Mattawa is fluent in several languages

Khaled Mattawa is fluent in several languages, including Arabic, English, and Italian. His linguistic skills and cultural knowledge have been instrumental in his work as a translator, and his understanding of different cultures is evident in his poetry.

Conclusion

Khaled Mattawa is a true literary hero – a poet, translator, professor, and advocate for writers. His work has been recognized with numerous awards, and his poetry and translations have inspired generations of readers. As we celebrate National Poetry Month, let us be grateful for the contributions of great poets like Khaled Mattawa, who help us to understand the world around us in a deeper and more meaningful way.

FAQs

Q1. What is Khaled Mattawa known for?

Ans: Khaled Mattawa is known for his poetry and translations of Arabic literature into English.

Q2. What themes are often explored in Khaled Mattawa’s poetry?

Ans: Khaled Mattawa’s poetry often explores themes of identity, politics, and belonging.

Q3. What awards has Khaled Mattawa won?

Ans: Khaled Mattawa has won numerous awards, including the PEN America Translation Award, the NEA Literature Fellowship in Poetry, and the MacArthur Genius Grant.

Q4. What languages is Khaled Mattawa fluent in?

Ans: Khaled Mattawa is fluent in several languages, including Arabic, English, and Italian.

Q5. What is Khaled Mattawa’s profession?

Ans: Khaled Mattawa is a professor of English and Creative Writing at the University of Michigan.