QUICK FACTS
Date of Birth
1941
Al-Birwa, Palestine
Place of Birth
Why Featured?
Darwish's poetry passionately embodies the Palestinian struggle for identity and homeland, resonating on both national and universal levels.
BRIEF BIO
Mahmoud Darwish was an esteemed Palestinian poet whose work transcends the Palestinian struggle to touch on universal themes of identity, exile, and belonging. His poetry is deeply interwoven with the Palestinian cause, transforming personal and national grievances into a universal quest for freedom and human dignity.
LAST UPDATED
DATE
Monday, January 26, 2026
MAJOR MILESTONES
Key dates & turning points
1948: Endured the Nakba, leading to the loss of his village, Al-Birwa.
1960s – 1970’s: Emerged as prominent poet and activist for Palestinian rights
1987 : Published “ Victims of Map “ a collection of his poetry
2001 :Won the Lannan Foundation Prize for Cultural Freedom
2008: Died on August 9, following a heart operation in the United States. His death was mourned as significant loss in the Arab World and beyond
CONTRIBUTIONS
What they did, and why it matters
Voice of Palestinian Identity: His poetry vividly expresses the Palestinian sense of loss, Exile, and longing for homeland...See More
Innovative Literary Style: Darwish's innovative use of language and narrative structure has greatly influenced Arabic literature...See More
Political Activism: Through his poetry, he became a prominent voice in the struggle for Palestinian self-determination...See More
Cultural Impact: His works have been translated into over 20 languages, spreading awareness of the Palestinian cause globally...See More
Literary Awards: Received numerous awards recognizing his contribution to literature and his role as a cultural ambassador...See More
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Last updated
Jan 26, 2026
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