Jalal literary awards established to promote nat’l literature: Salehi
Iran’s Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance, Abbas Salehi, reaffirmed the purpose of the Jalal Al-e Ahmad Literary Awards, stating they were established to enhance national literature.
During the closing ceremony of the 17th Jalal Al-e Ahmad Literary Awards on Wednesday, he highlighted that while one might agree or disagree with Jalal’s works, he remains a quintessential figure in Iranian literature, deeply rooted in national identity, IRNA reported.
Salehi reflected on the award’s journey over the past 17 years, noting both its challenges and achievements.
He remarked, “This award has reached a point where we can reflect on its past and plan for its future,” adding that the awards focus on three key perspectives: The Persian language, national literature, and religious literature.
In his address, Salehi elaborated on the concept of national literature, clarifying that it is not intended to oppose global literature or promote xenophobia. Instead, he stated that national literature serves to foster unity and cohesion within society. “Divisive literature cannot be considered national,” he asserted, explaining that literature should enhance national identity while preserving its unique attributes amid cultural exchanges.
Salehi described national literature as one that incorporates the diverse subcultures within a nation, rather than positioning them in opposition.
He emphasized that Iranian national literature acknowledges regional and religious subcultures as integral components of the national identity.