The Israeli Poets’ Festival, traditionally held in Metulla, has been relocated to Jerusalem this year due to security concerns. This year’s festival will take place from August 28-30 at three venues in the capital: Mishkenot Sha’ananim, the Khan Theater, and Confederation House. While most events are free, the sessions at the Khan Theater will require tickets.
The festival will pay tribute to Erez Biton, an influential Israeli poet of Moroccan heritage, who has made significant contributions to both literature and social issues. Biton, who received the Israel Prize in 2015, has inspired many poets, including Ronny Someck, who will honor Biton at the festival. Someck, also an award-winning poet, credits Biton with encouraging him to incorporate his cultural heritage into his poetry.
Someck, who was born in Iraq and immigrated to Israel as a child, will participate in several sessions during the festival. He will read from Biton’s works and discuss Biton’s influence on his own poetry. Someck acknowledges Biton as a pioneering figure who challenged the literary norms of his time by writing about experiences outside the mainstream, particularly those rooted in Moroccan culture.
The festival will also feature readings from Someck’s latest collection, “Fire,” which includes poems written before and after the tragic events of October 7. Someck questions whether poetry can truly impact society but believes that events like the Israeli Poets’ Festival play a vital role in bringing poetry to the public.
In addition to honoring Biton, the festival will include sessions led by poets such as Yoram Wearth, Noa Shakargy, Inbar Shafruni, and Amos Noy. The event will also address the personal and collective traumas experienced in Israel, with poets like Shachar-Mario Mordechai, Gilad Meiri, and Aya Elia sharing works inspired by the wars and conflicts that have shaped their lives.
Poems written by IDF soldiers will be presented, moderated by poet Eliaz Cohen and Brig.-Gen. Ofir Livius, who also writes poetry. The festival’s finale will highlight poets from kibbutzim in southern Israel, including those directly affected by recent attacks.
As the festival provides a temporary escape from the ongoing conflict, Someck reflects on the role of poetry in healing. He likens poetry to a marathon, suggesting that while it may not provide immediate relief, it has the power to make a lasting impact over time.
Despite the challenges and the change in location, organizers have arranged transportation for evacuees from Metulla to attend the festival, ensuring that the spirit of the event continues in Jerusalem.