In the introduction of his literary masterpiece, "My Early Life" His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah reflects on the power of experience and the influence of the past, elements that typically hold sway over autobiographical works.
In contemplating the essence of the author's words, one cannot help but notice a recurrent query that unfailingly graces his presence—an inquiry into the significance of bygone occurrences. It is apparent that within his introspective realm, he finds solace in the notion that unravelling the tapestry of past experiences offers a profound comprehension of life itself. Akin to a seasoned archaeologist unearthing relics of profound importance, he attests to the inherent vitality within these recollections, refuting any notion of their dissolution or ossification within the conscious individual. Instead, they hold a transformative power, capable of bestowing renewed self-understanding. It is as if the past, in its enigmatic guise, assumes the mantle of a key, unlocking the secrets that lie shrouded in the present.
It is upon this foundation that a brighter future can be constructed, paving the way for progress and growth.
Within the captivating pages of this literary opus, the very fabric of its narrative unveils a profound contemplation of bygone epochs. Aptly titled, it embarks upon a discourse that meanders through the corridors of time, reminiscent in its essence. The act of narration, a vessel of communication between souls, serves as the conduit for the transfer of experiential truths from the storyteller to the enraptured listener or reader. Through its multifaceted forms—be it the melodic cadence of spoken word, the artful construction of a tale, or the eloquent articulation of events—narration emerges as an entity that transcends mere factual revelation. It assumes a transformative role, laying bare not only the intricate web of facts and circumstances, but also peeling back the layers that veil the narrator's very essence. It is within the delicate interplay between the chronicles recounted and the idiosyncrasies revealed that the art of narration assumes its awe-inspiring power, granting us an intimate glimpse into the multifaceted nature of the narrator's being.
It is with resolute emphasis that we delve deeper into the profound awareness harboured by the author, for within the realm of narration lies an elusive dimension—a pathway that leads not only to the understanding of external tales, but also to the intricate chambers of the narrator's own being. With an unwavering commitment to self-discovery, the author endeavours to unlock the enigma that shrouds his very existence, utilizing the medium of narrative as his guiding compass. A remarkable revelation emerges, illuminating the realization that the author's conscious awareness transcends the act of narration itself; it is a flame that burns brightly, irrespective of whether words are spun into tales or silence envelops the scene. And yet, driven by an insatiable curiosity, the author dauntlessly ventures forth, navigating the labyrinthine corridors of his own profound depths. In this intrepid exploration, narrative serves as an instrument, as the author unearths the mysteries that lay dormant within, unravelling the tapestry of his authentic self.
In the meticulous chronicles penned by the author, we find a captivating interplay of narration that dances between description, record-keeping, and profound documentation. This is most strikingly evident when one delves into the pages of the eleventh chapter, which illuminates the grand tapestry of Sharjah's national expansion. However, it is crucial to discern that the author's perspective transcends the lens of a mere historian, for the presentation of events, although occasionally arranged in chronological order, bears a distinctive hue that sets it apart.
In contrast, the author examines these experiences from the perspective of the average person, offering insights into various aspects of life. He delves into his personal journey as a student at Al-Qasimia school, providing a glimpse into the daily life of a student. Additionally, he recounts the daring operations carried out against the British base, shedding light on the audacious endeavours through the eyes of a young boy.
Moving forward, the author recounts his life as an expatriate university student at the Faculty of Agriculture in Cairo University. Through his narrative, he captures the challenges, triumphs, and unique perspectives that accompany studying in a foreign land. Furthermore, he sheds light on the intricate dealings of the men in positions of authority in Egypt, offering a firsthand account of their actions and decisions through the eyes of an Arab young man.
This approach indicates that the author's intention is not to provide an exhaustive or all-encompassing analysis, but rather to share his personal experiences with an authentic perspective. The author's honesty lies in his commitment to depicting the reality as he has witnessed it first-hand. In doing so, he may address a gap left by specialized historians who may focus more on broader historical narratives or specific perspectives. By offering his unique insights and observations, the author adds a valuable dimension to our understanding of these contexts and events.
The author's primary focus is on providing objective descriptions of his experiences, striving for accuracy and transparency. Notably, he does not shy away from acknowledging his own mistakes and at times offers justifications for them. What intrigued me the most about the book was the author's inclusion of his testimonies regarding the happenings within the ruling family during a specific period. While the author may not reveal everything, it is a rare opportunity to gain insight into the behind-the-scenes situations through the eyes of someone intimately connected to the ruling family. This book offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the rulers, providing a slice of their daily existence that is seldom found in other sources.
The author extensively covers a wide range of topics in the book, including incidents, news, testimonies, reports, and memoirs. These diverse experiences contribute to the development of young individuals, particularly in shaping their personalities and preparing them for future leadership responsibilities. It is through exposure to this breadth of experiences and perspectives that individuals gain a more comprehensive understanding of the world around them, fostering the necessary qualities and insights needed for effective leadership in the future. The book serves as a valuable resource for young people seeking to broaden their horizons and cultivate a well-rounded perspective.
The author effectively conveys his experiences to the reader through skilful narration, allowing the reader to connect with his sincerity and authenticity. As readers immerse themselves in the narrative, they expand their understanding of reality by incorporating the author's unique perspectives. This expanded understanding can lead to a profound shift in the reader's attitude towards life. The power of narrative lies in its ability to provoke introspection, challenge preconceived notions, and inspire personal transformation.
In this context, I believe that this book, with its impactful narrative, has made a significant contribution to changing Arab life.
The most event that had the most profound impact on me occurred during the scene where I played a significant role in preventing the demolition of the fort of Sharjah. In this situation, I had the opportunity to advise my brother, Sheikh Khalid bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, who was the ruler of Sharjah at that time, to reconsider his decision to demolish the historic fort. It may be tempting to view this event as merely a consequence of my familial relationship with the ruler, but there were several other factors at play that contributed to my ability to influence the outcome.
The most important of which was my deep-rooted passion for history and preservation played a crucial role in shaping my perspective on the fort's demolition.
But I see otherwise, the author's historically rational consciousness played a significant role in preventing the demolition of the fort. It is indeed crucial to recognize that history should not be hastily erased or disregarded, but rather reinterpreted and understood in the context of the present.
By advocating for the preservation of the fort, the author demonstrated a mature cultural understanding that values the importance of preserving historical landmarks. This perspective acknowledges that monuments and sites carry layers of meaning and historical significance that can provide valuable insights into the past.
Furthermore, the author's belief in the reinterpretation of history in light of the new spirit of the age reflects an openness to evolving perspectives and a recognition of the dynamic nature of culture. Rather than dismissing the fort as an unwanted relic, the author recognized its potential to serve as a bridge between the past and the present, fostering a deeper understanding of our roots and heritage.
In this light, the scene not only highlights the author's mature cultural sensibilities but also serves as a testament to the power of historical consciousness in shaping our understanding of the world. By preserving the fort, the author not only protected a physical structure but also safeguarded a piece of our collective history, allowing it to continue influencing and inspiring future generations. In "My Early Life," I perceive the author's personality as multifaceted and diverse. Throughout the narrative, the author portrays different aspects of their character, revealing a range of traits and perspectives.
In "My Early Life," the author's personality can be explored through the lens of various opposing dualities, providing insight into their integrated and balanced self. These dualities encompass contrasting aspects of the author's character, shedding light on their complexity and depth.
One duality is the interplay between scientific knowledge and literary insight. The author demonstrates a keen interest in both rigorous scientific inquiry and the profound understanding gained through literature. They possess a thirst for knowledge and approach subjects with analytical rigor, while also appreciating the emotional and imaginative realms that literature offers. This combination allows the author to provide a unique perspective that combines empirical understanding with literary depth.
Another duality lies in the contrast between the scientist and the poet within the author. They possess a rational and analytical mind, approaching problems with scientific rigor and objectivity. Yet, they also exhibit a poetic sensibility, utilizing vivid language, metaphors, and descriptive imagery to evoke rich emotions and create a deeper connection with the reader. This synthesis of scientific and poetic elements adds richness and nuance to their narrative.
The author's personality also encompasses the dynamic between objective and subjective qualities. They strive for objectivity in their observations and seek to understand the world through an impartial lens. Simultaneously, they embrace subjectivity, acknowledging their own personal reflections and the impact of individual experiences. This balance allows the reader to witness the author's growth and transformation as they navigate the intersection of objective reality and subjective interpretation.
Furthermore, the author embodies the curiosity of an activist and the calmness of a student. They possess a fervent passion for justice and social change, actively engaging with the world and addressing societal issues. Yet, they also exhibit a composed and contemplative demeanour, approaching their studies and personal reflections with a calm and introspective attitude. This fusion showcases their ability to balance the pursuit of activism with the tranquillity of introspection.
Lastly, the author navigates the duality of critical reflection and nationalist fervour. They engage in thoughtful and critical introspection, questioning prevailing beliefs and societal norms. By embracing these opposing dualities, the author presents an integrated and balanced self.
A man's life is intricately intertwined with the events of reality. It is through the medium of a biography that the full breadth of this connection is unveiled, allowing the author to convey their values to society. Immersing myself in the pages of "My Early Life," I witnessed the author's experiences unfold, gaining a profound understanding of Arab life in the Gulf region, with a particular focus on the Emirate of Sharjah.
Within the tapestry of the author's storytelling, a deeper comprehension of their personal journey and the societal backdrop in which it unfolded emerged. This book artfully painted a nuanced portrait of their existence, delving into their thoughts, emotions, and the underlying values that shaped their path.
By sharing their narrative, the author aimed to transmit their values and ideas, seeking to resonate and establish connections with readers within the larger societal sphere.
While reading "My Early Life" I encountered familiar historical information, aligned with what can be found in published history books. However, the true allure of this work lay in its revelation of lesser-known details and untold stories, which had remained overlooked in mainstream historical accounts.
It brought me immense joy to sense that I was delving deeper into the author's conscience and their unique worldview. As a translator, my sincere aspiration is to evoke the same joy and resonance among Korean readers through my translation.
In closing, I extend my heartfelt wish that the author's aspirations find fulfilment, as expressed in the concluding words of the book: "I will be a righteous son to your elder, a faithful brother to your midst, and a caring father to your youngest."
Dr. Park Jae-won
Director of the Institute of Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Seoul - South Korea, Former Head of the Arabic Department at the University, Translator of the book "My Early Life."