Ideas

Imprisoned Syrian wrote poetry imagining the fall of the regime. Now it's come true

Oct 10, 2025
Faraj Bayrakdar, a renowned Syrian poet and former political prisoner, spent 14 years behind bars where he wrote powerful poetry imagining the fall of the Assad regime. He shares how writing became a form of rebellion, even under torture. Bayrakdar discusses the importance of inner freedom and how poetry served as his weapon against oppression. He reflects on the pain of families of prisoners and the concept of transitional justice, advocating for a dignified future for Syria rather than a legacy of graves.
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ANECDOTE

Poetry Born Inside Interrogation

  • Faraj Bayrakdar composed his first prison poem mentally during interrogation and torture, reviving his poetic voice.
  • He called the poem a fable imagining the dictator's fall because he could not yet believe it as real.
INSIGHT

Optimism Rooted In Faith And Principle

  • Bayrakdar says faith in people and belief in defending human rights sustained his optimism in prison.
  • He predicted nothing stays forever and that tyrannies eventually end.
ANECDOTE

Watching Prisoners Walk Out

  • Watching videos of prisoners freed, Bayrakdar felt both joy and partial freedom because full freedom depends on all people being free.
  • He later affirmed the release was true and comprehensive because it was wrested by the people.
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