iltizām

Iltizam is an Arabic term that emerged in literary criticism after World War II, signifying a commitment to literature serving the people. This movement encouraged writers to address social issues and engage with political realities, moving away from purely aesthetic concerns.12

Key aspects of iltizam include:
* Social Criticism: Writers focused on firsthand knowledge of social problems, often coming from non-privileged backgrounds.2
* Political Engagement: Literature became a platform for expressing nationalist sentiments and addressing issues like the Palestinian cause.21
* Shift from Tradition: Arabic poetry broke from classical traditions, influenced by European literary trends and a desire for independence.21
* Journalistic Style: Many writers began as journalists, bringing an immediate and observational style to their literary work.2

This approach contrasted with earlier romanticism and emphasized the active involvement of creative writers in cultural and political discourse.21