We have no Arab intellectuals of international stature because we live in a state of generalized mediocrity. We are suspended in the pit without touching the bottom.

Beauty is first and foremost an emotion.

My hope is that countries like Morocco will have investment to create work, so people don't have to leave.

In the 70s I was in exile; every time I went back I wondered if they'd take my passport away.

I write about wounds, the eternal treasons of life. It's not very funny, but it's sincere. My commitment is to sincerity.

I read a poem every night, as others read a prayer.

Poetry is not only a set of words which are chosen to relate to each other; it is something which goes much further than that to provide a glimpse of our vision of the world.