The Maltese Poets Association commemorated the Gozitan poet Gorg Pisani, during a soirèe held on St. John’s Bastion at the Citadel. The commemoration programme included biographical information about Pisani, who was not only a poet and a writer, but also a teacher and a patriot. This was confirmed through messages conveyed by the various speakers during the programme, which also included readings from his literary works such as poems, and excerpts from a novel and a social comedy.

The reading of the poem L-Ghid taz-Zghozija, that gained Pisani the title of ‘the Poet of Youth’ was a sure inclusion in the programme which was also varied with musical excerpts provided by Hilary Spiteri and Joe Engerer.

In his introduction, Mr Alfred Massa, President of the Maltese Poets Association, explained that one of the main objectives for which the association was established, was that of promoting interest in poetry within the Maltese community. To this aim, the association holds monthly soireès throughout various localities in Malta and Gozo. The Maltese Poets Association is by now established within the Maltese literary scenario and has also succeeded in gaining the recognition of international literary organisations. This helps to promote Maltese poetry abroad.

In her concluding speech, Giovanna Debono, Minister for Gozo, said that the contents of the programme witness Gorg Pisani’s attachment with Gozo. He succeeded in expressing this attachment within his literary works that will continue to be a living documentation of various legends as well as historical and folkloristic Gozitan traditions.

The Minister recalled an exhibition which was held at the Exhibition Hall of the Ministry for Gozo earlier this year, to mark the first centenary from the birth of this poet. Gorg Pisani’s life was depicted through the various manuscripts, correspondence and photographs that were exhibited. They particularly demonstrated the principles and values that Gorg Pisani held in his efforts to promote education as well as the appreciation of Gozo’s historical and natural heritage.

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