In this book, Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Al-Matouq, a professor of language and literature at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Saudi Arabia, discusses issues related to Arabic poetry. He considers that important aspects still need more exploration and scrutiny due to their significance in enhancing the status of poetry and invigorating thought on what expands its horizons and increases its effectiveness. Through the themes of this book, Dr. Al-Matouq revisits many matters concerning Arabic poetry, addressing them in light of new cultural and civilizational insights, including those associated with free verse poetry—its concepts, rules, opinions, and studies that have discussed its development as a modern movement integrated into contemporary Arabic literature. The author reflects on old and new issues alike, whose implications can be applied to what the pioneers of free verse either acquired or innovated. This includes the matter of 'authenticity and innovation' or 'authenticity and creativity.' The author questions the value of what these poets have achieved in terms of modernity, often challenged by the notion that innovation lies in rebellion and total rejection of anything inherited or familiar. Meanwhile, precise measures and clear guidelines often seem absent. Additionally, the author refers to modernist exaggerations where obscurity became a foundation in poetic creativity, leading to it being considered an essential trait of authenticity. This trend has influenced some Arab critics who have adopted these positions, declaring that all genuine poetry is obscure and all obscurity genuine. In such circumstances, can obscurity truly be considered a requisite of authenticity and creativity? Can we accept that poetic obscurity lacks roots in Arabic heritage or that it doesn’t exist as a critical issue in this tradition? The aforementioned issues, or the questions related to them, form the critical study in this book aimed at revitalizing and growing poetry today. It provides a clear service to Arabic literature, offering a perspective worth deep consideration by every critic and poet to avoid straying from the noble purpose behind writing poetry, which is embodying the meanings of truth, justice, beauty, love, and peace. Discussing the 'Issues of Arabic Poetry' and its associated concepts and theories remains in constant renewal.

• Contents of the book:

• 1- "Reading the Free Verse Poem": Commentary on Dr. Al-Ghathami's participation in the Akhtal Al-Saghir session organized by the Babtain Prize for Poetic Creativity.

• 2- Authenticity and Creativity in Poetry.

• 3- Authenticity and Tradition in Poetry as seen by Ibn Tabataba Al-Alawi.

• 4- The Phenomenon of Obscurity:

• A- First section: Obscurity in ancient Arabic poetry.

• B- Second section: Obscurity in modern Arabic poetry. Publishing house: Arab Science Publishers / Lebanon Number of Pages: 238 Year of publication: 2013