Power of the pen: ‘Progressive writers must side with truth’

Hassam Hurr’s poetry collection launched in Haripur

HARIPUR: Progressive writers must side with those who provide an honest testimony of the times instead of supporting the oppressor especially in the prevailing socio-economic and political situation in the country.

This was stated by Anjuman-e-Taraqqi Pasand Musanifeen (ATPM) President Salim Raza. He was speaking at a book launch held in Haripur on Saturday evening.

Speaking at the occasion, he spoke about the role of ATPM in the 1930s. He said progressive writers had always reflected the truth through their writing.

“The organisation was founded for progressive writers to move forward and side with the truth,” he added. Progressive writers never tried to promote any propaganda or agenda through their literary writings. A writer’s job is to expose the reality of the society.”

He was invited on the occasion to launch ‘Husn e Taghazzul’ – an anthology of poems by Hassam Hurr.

The event was attended by ATPM Information Secretary Professor Waheed Qureshi, Haripur Chapter President Tahir Gul, among others. They drew attention to the social and literary aspects of Hurr’s collection. According to them, his work was based on progressive thoughts and builds on the idea of optimism.

After the ceremony, a mushaira was organised. Poets from different parts of Hazara, Wah Cantonment, Taxila and Peshawar recited their poems. Amjad Minhas, Imtiaz ul Haq Imtiaz, Qazi Jamilur Rehman, Shaheen Awan, Waseem Abbas, Bilal Aajiz and Qazi Atif were present on the occasion.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 25^th, 2016.