Between Modernism and Tradition: Beirut’s Poetry and Literaturein Transformation

This paper explores how literary modernism in Lebanon was shaped by poetry’s response to socio-political changes. By examining historical events and socio-cultural contexts, the research provides insights into the origins and evolution of the Levant literary movement. The study focuses on mid-20th century Beirut, during the second phase of Levant literature, and considers how Lebanon’s lenient censorship laws attracted radical writers. The migration of these writers to Beirut significantly impacted the modernization of Levantine literature and poetry. The paper also discusses how Lebanese individuals who travelled abroad were influenced by the contrast between Western affluence and perceived stagnation in their homeland. This "gap of success" inspired many European-educated journalists, authors, and revolutionaries to adopt new, contemporary perspectives.