Deep Dive: Write Down, I Am an Arab (2014)
Film Lens
Write Down, I Am an Arab is a documentary about Mahmoud Darwish, the Palestinian national poet, written and directed by Ibtisam Mara'ana. The film chronicles Darwish's life, from his early experiences in the village of al-Birwa to his role as a voice for Palestinian identity. It covers his poetry, particularly the impactful piece 'Write Down, I Am an Arab,' which led to his imprisonment and established him as an icon in the Arab world.
The film also covers Darwish's personal life, including his love affair with Tamar Ben-Ami, a Jewish-Israeli woman, and features her previously secret love letters. Through archival materials and Darwish's poetry, the documentary presents a complex portrait of the poet, intertwining his personal narrative with the broader Palestinian struggle for liberation.
Why Watch
- •Meet Mahmoud Darwish, the voice of Palestinian poetry.
- •See intimate letters from Darwish's love, Tamar Ben-Ami.
- •Find out about Darwish's life under military law.
Did You Know
•Mahmoud Darwish was born in the village of al-Birwa in Western Galilee.
•Darwish's poem 'Write Down, I Am an Arab' was written in 1964 and led to his imprisonment.
•The film premiered at Hot Docs in Toronto, Canada.
•Darwish returned to Palestine in 1995 after years of exile.
Perfect For
Palestinian literatureMiddle Eastern historyPoetry enthusiasts