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8/25/25, 12:54 PM MBR Library embraces French poetry with Charles Baudelaire
The session addressed the contrast in Baudelaire’s poems, where the duality of evil and
transcendence intertwined in a structure that blends human seduction with the desire for
elevation through art. It explained Baudelaire’s aesthetic vision based on paradox and
contradiction. Nourine compared the poetry of Baudelaire and Al-Mutanabbi, highlighting the

points of convergence between the two poets in their belief in the poetic self and the
intensification of the human experience in its tragic and existential dimensions.

With a large turnout, the discussions and readings were an opportunity to reflect on Baudelaire’s

poetic duality between light and shadows, and to learn about new approaches that connect
Western and Arabic literary experiences.

Through these events, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library seeks to reinforce its role as a

beacon of knowledge and culture, fostering dialogue between cultures and bringing readers
closer to the world’s most prominent literary experiences. This strengthens Dubai’s position as a

hub for thought and creativity.

Recently, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library (MBRL) welcomed a high-level delegation from the
Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement (Tawazun), led by Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi,
Secretary General of the Council. The visit aimed to explore the library’s mission and its vital
role in the local and global cultural landscape, as well as strengthening bridges of cultural and

intellectual cooperation between the two institutions.

Earlier, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) launched its
Knowledge Lounge initiative in the Arab Republic of Egypt as part of its constant efforts to instil
a culture of quality reading in the Arabic language and nurture the youth’s intellectual potential.

The launch was held at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, during a session moderated by writer Said
Mahmoud and attended by prominent literary and cultural figures. Jamal Bin Huwaireb, CEO of

MBRF, said: “The launch of the Knowledge Lounge in Egypt marks a significant milestone in
MBRF’s regional expansion strategy, which aims to promote our projects across all Arab
knowledge capitals. It further showcases our goal to encourage reading among Arab youth,
supporting them in broadening their prospects and improving their expertise across various
intellectual and knowledge fields. Furthermore, its launch at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina aligns

with our belief in the importance of this historical monument, which serves as a beacon of
science, knowledge, and creativity. The move reiterates our commitment to developing and
implementing initiatives that empower minds, refine skills, and promote openness and
knowledge dissemination.”

During the session, discussions were held on the history and expansion of the Knowledge

Lounge initiative since its launch, especially its key focus on supporting Arab authors and
literature. Furthermore, participants highlighted the success of the Knowledge Lounge in
Canada, which boosted its impact and support for Arab writers by encouraging Arabic reading

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