Mahmoud Darwish Poetry

Mahmoud Darwish (1941-2008) was a luminary in Palestinian poetry, his verses a haunting symphony of exile, identity, and resistance. With over twenty volumes of poetry and seven books of prose, his work dances between the visceral pain of displacement and the ethereal beauty of his homeland. His poignant explorations of personal and collective suffering resonate deeply, transforming grief into lyrical art. Celebrated globally, Darwish’s poetry is a powerful testament to the Palestinian experience, embodying a profound struggle and an unyielding spirit.

Biography Quotes

Poem Explorer Poetry Archives

PDF Guide

Nationality:

Themes:

Emotions:

Topics:

Form:

"> 75/100

Identity Card

‘Identity Card’ by Mahmoud Darwish reckons passionately and angrily with the realities of Palestinian displacement and their oppressive treatment.

Many of the poet's most affecting poetry deals with the topic of the exploitation of Arabs by Israel. In this poem, he recalls a moment of confrontation with those arresting him for not carrying his ID, proudly reciting their ethnic, cultural, and historical identities for all to hear. Yet it's also revealed how much suffering and pain is woven in as well, which has left the oppressed population enraged, foreshadowing that it will only lead to further violence as resistance grows more desperate.

Write down!

I am an Arab

And my identity card number is fifty thousand

Home » Poets » Mahmoud Darwish Poems

General

Poetry+

Discover

Useful Links