Sudanese poet Khalil Farrah's treatment recalled
A film about English poet John Keats draws parallels to Farrah's final days and restrictive diet.
The treatment of Sudanese poet Khalil Farrah during his final illness has been recalled, drawing parallels to the life of English poet John Keats. Farrah, a famous poet of the "Haqiba" era, was accompanied on his final treatment journey to Egypt by Haddabai and Al-Zubair Pasha's son, Al-Tarifi. Haddabai had objected to the restrictive diet imposed on Farrah, which consisted of only small portions per meal, but his concerns were not heeded.
This recollection was prompted by watching the Netflix film "The Bright Star," directed by Jane Campion. Campion, who previously won the Palme d'Or for "The Piano," described "The Bright Star" as her most challenging film. She struggled to find an actor capable of reciting poetry, eventually casting Ben Whishaw for his exceptional skill in delivering verse, a talent BBC also recognizes.
Whishaw's portrayal of Keats, who suffered from tuberculosis, mirrored the fragility and artistic brilliance associated with Farrah. The film depicts Keats's physical decline and his continued creation of poetry despite his illness. This echoes accounts of Farrah's own struggles, including a severe coughing fit where he spat blood, an event that deeply moved his companions at Fawzi's salon in Omdurman.
Why it mattersSudanese cultural figures and their health struggles are brought to the attention of readers through a comparison with a foreign film.