The “Si Baal” Association launched its calendar of events with a literary evening titled “When Baal Speaks.”
The association hosted the event at Beit Sebal Hall in the Zgharta district. Local dignitaries, families of the honored writers and poets, and cultural enthusiasts attended the evening.
After the national anthem, Anita al-Hajj opened the program. Association president Amir al-Hajj then delivered a welcoming speech.
He explained the event’s objectives and stressed the importance of restoring Sebaal’s cultural memory. He also thanked Milad Abshi for coordinating the evening.
The event celebrated several prominent poets and writers from Sebaal.
Among them was poet Asaad al-Saabali. His grandson, writer Jean Hasbani, contributed an audio recording about his grandfather’s life and literary legacy.
Next, media personality Robert Frangieh spoke about his experience with the poet and his work. He also called for transforming the poet’s home into a literary museum and republishing his works.
Poet Dr. Fawzi Yamin then shared the story of his mentor, poet Antoine al-Saba’ali. Al-Saba’ali had also served as president of the Teachers’ Union.
Meanwhile, his son Pierre read a selection of his father’s poems.
The presentations also highlighted journalist Alfira Latouf. In addition, the evening celebrated poets Youssef Rouhana, Ya’qub Bakhos, and Muhsin Lahoud.
Moreover, the organizers presented an exhibition of books and photographs documenting the careers of Sebaal’s writers.
Through these works, the evening revived an important part of the town’s literary history.
Although these cultural figures are no longer physically present, their legacy continues. Their poetry, books, journalism, and contributions remain alive in Sebaal’s cultural memory.
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