30r364 boek.qxd:awards book 11 - Prince Claus Fund

Mahmoud Darwish 1941–2008The Prince Claus Fund honours the memory of Mahmoud Darwish, beloved poet, not only ofPalestine but of the world, and 2004 Principal Prince Claus Laureate. Born in the village of Birwain 1941, Mahmoud was six years old when he and his family fled to Lebanon to escape violentoppression in their homeland. When they were able to return, one year later, they found their homedestroyed and a settlement erected on the site of their village. This early experience of loss,exile, longing for ‘home’ and the impossibility of return – suffered again in various forms over theyears – echoed through his life. And the experience continues, not only for the Palestinians –who recite his poems by heart and came in their thousands to listen to his readings – but also forthe millions of refugees and exiles across the world today. From his early collections Winglessbirds (1960) and Leaves of olives (1964) to his last published book of poems Same as almond flowersor farther (2005), his work is profoundly humanist, an existential search for meaning and forbeauty in the local and the mundane. A gentle man of courage, warmth and insight, MahmoudDarwish shared his talent with the world. He received the Principal Prince Claus Award inrecognition of his unique literary achievements and his role as a beacon for the human spirit inthe struggle for global justice and peace. The Board, Director, International Advisors and staffof the Prince Claus Fund mourn the loss of Mahmoud Darwish. We salute his generosity andtreasure his gift of words.Culture and the Human Body145