Egypt Loses Its Shining Negm

It is dark day in Egypt as one of its greatest revolutionary poetic flames has been extinguished. On Tuesday morning, at age of 84, legendary poet Ahmed Fouad Negm passed away.

Negm, born in Sharqiya on May 29, 1929, was one of Egypt's most outspoken and vernacular poets of the second half of 20^th century. His protesting voice provided poetic documentation for many of Egypt's modern historical defining moments. From his famous poem depicting the 1967 war, up until the 2011 revolution many of his poem epitomised the times and were often sung and chanted at protests.

Negm believed that “revolution is started by dreamers, led by maniacs; its benefits enjoyed by opportunistic SOBs.”

He was fearless in his criticism, often saying things that needed to be said about everything from religion to revolution. “Before you claim to be a protector of religion, first make sure you understand religion.” Aside from being poignant, he had tremendous wit: “If Islam was about how big your beard is, Santa Claus should be Al-Azhar's Grand Sheikh.”

Family members will receive condolences at Bilal Ibn Rabah Mosque in Moqattam tonight. Publisher Ahmed Hashem and Negm’s family have been trying to change the venue to Omar Makram Mosque on the outskirts of Tahrir Square, but it seems unlikely to happen.

Negm's funeral will be held at Al-Hussein Mosque in Cairo, located near the famous Khan Al-Khalili bazzar, Hashem added.

“As long as the nation lives in disagreement, there will be no alliances as every sect lives on its own, with curtains drawn, afraid of the other.” – Ahmed Fouad Negm