What happens when three literary giants walk into a university hall? At Iqra University’s recently-held event, the answer materialized as a collection of wisdom, creativity, and revolutionary ideas. Organized by Iqra University’s Debate and Literary Society, the event titled, ‘Voices of Literature: Exploring the Power of the Written Word,’ brought together three literary mavens who transformed an ordinary academic gathering into an extraordinary exploration of the written word.
The event featured Dr. Faisal Nazir, an Assistant Professor at the University of Karachi, who highlighted the profound impact literature can have on personal growth. He invoked Franz Kafka’s powerful words:
“I think we ought to read only the kind of books that wound or stab us. If the book we’re reading doesn’t wake us up with a blow to the head, what are we reading for?”
Dr. Nazir’s exploration of the importance of literature resonated with students, as he quoted Derek Attridge, asserting that literature serves to challenge our perspectives and facilitate change through engagement with the ‘other.’
The event continued with Ms. Sumayya Usmani, a celebrated author whose works cover the essence of folklore and flavor. Sharing her personal journey, she encouraged everyone to unleash their creativity.
“We all are creative humans. Creativity is not something that’s bestowed on one or five people in a room. It is bestowed on all of us. And the literature speaks for one form of creativity. That creativity comes in thought. And creativity comes in the way that we interact with each other. Creativity comes with resolution of complex. You know, that’s all creative,” she expressed.
Ms. Usmani’s insights fostered a sense of empowerment within the audience, urging them to view literature as a vessel for expressing their ideas and emotions.
The final speaker, Ms. Rumana Hussain, a renowned author and artist, shared her vision for enriching children’s literature. Reflecting on her experiences, she pointed out the need for engaging Urdu literature, stating,
“While children love to read books in English, the Urdu-based books were really quite boring back then. So, we decided to create our own kind of publishing house.”
Ms. Hussain’s journey exemplifies the passion for storytelling that can inspire young readers.
As the event drew to a close, the message was clear: whether through academic analysis, culinary storytelling, or children’s literature, the written word remains our most powerful tool for change, creativity, and connection. In the end, these voices of literature didn’t just explore the power of the written word – they amplified it.
