M. M. ALAM

KARACHI: US diplomatic post here has organized a Poetry-Composing & Reciting Competition The Dawn of Freedom in honor of National Poetry Month.

Sixty pupils from a number of schools in the Metropolis took part in the Contest manifesting how verses could unite varied cultures.

Enabling the school children recite their own or American poets’ works, a Mushaira was held early today at the American Consul General’s ceremonial residence at FJR.

Speaking on the occasion Consulate’s Cultural Attaché A. J. Jagelski underlined the significance of art and poetry as important outlets for people to express themselves peacefully.

“Words can be especially powerful when they are used to further peace, tolerance, and justice”, Jagelski added.   

The poetry competition that centered on the themes of freedom, democracy, peace and social justice, was adjudicated by a distinguished panel comprising noted vocalist Tina Sani, writer Bina Shah and Consulate official John Hall.

Participants were asked to recite oeuvre by an American poet or an original poem in English.

They were judged for the categories of:

 i) Best recitation of an American poem;

 ii) Best original poem;

iii) Peoples’ Choice Award” based on votes from the audience.