Famous Lebanese Writers

Assi Rahbani was a Lebanese composer, musician, and producer known for his significant contributions to the music industry. As part of the Rahbani Brothers duo with his brother, he collaborated on numerous successful projects. His talent and creativity were evident in his compositions, which transcended various genres and captivated audiences. Rahbani's professional legacy includes a diverse body of work that continues to influence and inspire artists in music and theatre.

Antoun Saadeh was a prominent Lebanese figure known for founding the Syrian Social Nationalist Party. He was a multifaceted professional, excelling in the fields of politics, sociology, philosophy, and writing. Saadeh's contributions to Lebanese politics and society were significant, as he played a key role in shaping the ideology and direction of the SSNP. His work as a writer and philosopher also left a lasting impact, influencing the intellectual landscape of the region during his time.

Elia Abu Madi, a Lebanese-born American poet, had a prolific professional life marked by his significant contributions to literature. He was known for his powerful poetry that often delved into themes of love, nature, and identity. Abu Madi's work earned him recognition for his skillful use of language and profound insights. He was a prominent figure in the literary circles of his time, and his poems continue to resonate with readers around the world, showcasing his enduring impact on the world of poetry.

Butrus al-Bustani, an Arabic scholar, is renowned for his contributions to Arabic language and literature. He is best known for authoring an Arabic dictionary and an encyclopaedia. Additionally, he founded the political and literary magazine "al-Jinān" (The Shield). Despite being a Christian, al-Bustani became the first Syrian nationalist, advocating for cultural unity in Syria. His professional life was marked by a dedication to promoting Arabic language, literature, and cultural harmony in his homeland.

Mansour Rahbani was a versatile Lebanese figure renowned for his contributions in music composition, production, poetry, philosophy, and artistic direction. As one of the Rahbani brothers, he played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of Lebanon and the Arab world. His collaborations with his siblings resulted in iconic works that blended traditional Arabic music with modern influences, earning him a distinguished reputation as a respected composer and creative visionary. Rahbani's legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of artists and musicians.

Ameen Rihani was a Lebanese American writer, intellectual, and political activist who played a significant role in the mahjar literary movement among Arab emigrants in North America. He was an early advocate of Arab nationalism and became an American citizen in 1901. Rihani's professional life was marked by his prolific writing, where he authored various works that reflected his cultural heritage and political beliefs. He was known for his contributions to literature and his efforts to promote Arab identity and unity through his writings and activism.

Mikhail Naimy was a prominent Lebanese poet, novelist, and philosopher known for his spiritual writings, particularly The Book of Mirdad. He played a significant role in modern Arabic literature and spiritual writing in the 20th century. In 1920, Naimy played a pivotal role in re-forming the New York Pen League, collaborating with literary figures like Nasib Arida, Abd al-Masih Haddad, and Kahlil Gibran. His contributions to literature and philosophy have solidified his reputation as one of the most influential figures in the field.

May Elias Ziadeh was a Palestinian-Lebanese Maronite poet, essayist, and translator known for her prolific writing in both Arabic and French. She began publishing under the pen name Isis Copia in 1911 and corresponded with Kahlil Gibran in 1912. Ziadeh wrote for Arabic newspapers, periodicals, and published poems and books. She hosted a renowned literary salon in the modern Arab world in 1921. Ziadeh played a significant role in the Nahda movement and is considered a pioneer of Oriental feminism.

Mai Ghoussoub was a prominent Lebanese writer, artist, publisher, and human rights activist. She co-founded the Saqi bookshop and publishing house in London, where she played a significant role in promoting Middle Eastern literature and culture. Ghoussoub's professional life was characterized by a deep commitment to advocating for human rights, particularly in the context of the Middle East. Through her work as a publisher and writer, she contributed to the enrichment and dissemination of diverse voices from the region, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape.

Juman Malouf is a versatile professional with a background in costume design, illustration, voice acting, and writing. She initially worked in theatre set design and founded her own fashion label before discovering her passion for writing. She is the author of the children's fantasy book "The Trilogy of Two" and has contributed to her partner Wes Anderson's films by providing voiceovers, designing book covers, and creating character illustrations. Malouf also showcased her talents as a curator alongside her husband at a museum exhibition in Vienna.