Adonis's perspective highlights the importance of societal change over political change, suggesting that without addressing the underlying societal issues, any new regime may ultimately fail to bring about meaningful progress.
The poet's emphasis on freedom of speech and human rights resonates with the ongoing struggles in many Arab nations, where political changes have often not translated into improved societal conditions.
The future of Syria remains uncertain, with potential outcomes ranging from continued instability to the emergence of a society that prioritizes rights and freedoms, as advocated by Adonis.
If societal change does not occur, Syria may experience a cycle of political upheaval without achieving lasting peace or progress.
Syrian poet Adonis, known for his significant contributions to modern Arabic poetry, has called for a profound societal transformation in Syria following the recent fall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Adonis, who has lived in exile since 1956, emphasized that merely changing the political regime is insufficient; true change must come from altering the societal fabric itself. During a press conference in Paris, where he received the Joan Margarit International Poetry Prize, he stated, "The question is not to change the regime. It is to change society," highlighting the need for a foundation based on rights, freedoms, and gender equality.
The regime's collapse, which occurred on December 8, 2024, after a rebel coalition led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham captured Damascus, has sparked a mix of hope and uncertainty among the Syrian populace. Adonis expressed skepticism about the future, questioning what kind of governance would replace Assad's rule and urging a focus on societal values rather than mere political power shifts. He noted that past uprisings, including those during the Arab Spring, failed to instigate real change in societal structures, merely swapping one regime for another without addressing deeper issues.
Adonis, who has been a prominent figure in literature and a long-time advocate for human rights, believes that poetry plays a crucial role in shaping consciousness and fostering dialogue. He argues that while poetry does not directly change situations, it cultivates a new awareness that can inspire societal evolution. His works, which have garnered international acclaim, reflect his commitment to these ideals, and he remains a vital voice in discussions about Syria's future.
