In a landmark event that signals the emergence of a new intellectual paradigm, the Union of Iraq Writers (Basrah Branch) hosted a highly anticipated symposium titled “Vernacularism: The Paradigm, The Methodology, and The Creative Tendency,” presented by distinguished linguist, poet, scholar and the Editor in chief of Mesopotamian Journal of Arabic Language Studies MJALS Dr. Nasser Hajjaj.
Held before an audience of writers, translators, academics, and cultural figures, the symposium introduced Vernacularism as a revolutionary framework that redefines the study of language, identity, and creativity. Moving beyond traditional linguistics, Dr. Hajjaj positioned Vernacularism as a comprehensive methodology with profound applications across translation studies, literary criticism, cultural anthropology, psycholinguistics, and creative arts.
“Vernacularism,” Dr. Hajjaj explained, “is not merely a study of local dialects – it is a way of restoring dignity to the living languages and cultural expressions that globalization and linguistic standardization have long marginalized.” Drawing upon his previous influential works – Iraqi Poetry Identity: Badr Shakir Al-Sayyab (2012) and Arab Vernacularism (2024) – Dr. Hajjaj articulated how Vernacularism has now matured into a full paradigm that addresses global challenges facing linguistic and cultural diversity.
Throughout the seminar, he demonstrated how Vernacularism can:
Liberate translation practices from rigid equivalence theories by embracing vernacular expression.
Reframe diglossia in Arabic as a historical and psychological wound that needs healing.
Inspire new creative methods rooted in authentic local realities rather than imported literary forms.
The event generated a lively discussion among attendees, who explored the possibilities Vernacularism offers for future research, creative writing, curriculum reform, and cross-cultural dialogue. Many participants expressed the urgent need to adopt Vernacularism as a guiding methodology in translation departments, literary studies programs, and cultural institutions across Iraq and the Arab world.
Moderated by respected Iraqi literary figure Prof. Luay Hamza Abbas, the seminar was hailed as a historic intellectual moment for Basrah – the city known for its rich vernacular traditions and pioneering literary movements.
With this symposium, Dr. Nasser Hajjaj has laid the foundation for Vernacularism to grow from a critical method into a living, evolving intellectual and cultural movement – not only in Iraq but internationally.
The Union of Iraq Writers (Basrah Branch) announced plans to host future events dedicated to exploring Vernacularism’s applications in art, literature, education, and social sciences, further cementing Basrah’s role as a vibrant center for contemporary cultural thought.
For more information about Vernacularism and upcoming events, please contact the Union of Iraq Writers, Basrah Branch.