Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter hosts leading artists, calligraphers, musicians Poet Jassem Al-Sahih said humans not only derive a form of sustenance from their language but also construct the fabric of their lives from it MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia concluded its World Arabic Language Day celebrations Wednesday with poetry, calligraphy and music at Al-Kindi Square in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter. The event was organized by the Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language, and titled “Language of Poetry and Arts.” The three-day event, celebrating the annual Dec. 18 UN World Arabic Language Day, saw local and foreign attendees enjoy poetry readings, complemented by traditional coffee, dates, and sculptures adorned with calligraphy. In an interview with Arab News, poet Jassem Al-Sahih, invoking novelist Amin Maalouf’s metaphor, said language was like an umbilical cord connecting children to their mothers. Al-Sahih said humans not only derive a form of sustenance from their language but also construct the fabric of their lives from it. Poet Khaled Qamash commended the Ministry of Culture for ensuring the day was a rich cultural experience with its blend of poetry, music and songs. There were three zones at the event — “Letters and Poems,” “Afanin and Founoun,” and an interactive space called the “Courtyard.” In the “Letters and Poems” zone, visitors were able to immerse themselves in poetry and musical compositions, while the “Afanin and Founoun” zone allowed people to find the meaning of uncommon words at the touch of a button. The “Courtyard” featured attractions including “Discover the Cube,” “Discover the Letters” and “Create Art” sections to help children memorize words and write letters.