To mark World Arabic Novel Day, the Professional Literature Association, through its ambassadors in Al-Darb Governorate, held a cultural evening yesterday titled “What the Historian Does Not Write, the Novel Tells”. Writer Ali Huwaish took part, and the event drew a number of people interested in culture and literature.

The evening explored the relationship between the novel and history, and how storytelling can bring out human and social aspects that historical writing may not have room for. It also discussed the novel's role in preserving memory, expressing changes in society and allowing events to be read from several angles.

Members of the audience joined the discussion with comments and questions on the place of the Arabic novel and its ability to connect human experience with historical events.

The evening is part of the association's programmes to energise cultural life in the governorates and widen community participation in literary events.