Mar 21 β€’ 13:03 UTC πŸ‡¬πŸ‡· Greece Naftemporiki

World Poetry Day: The 'Bell of Pontus' occupies the throne of Pontic letters

World Poetry Day is celebrated annually on March 21, highlighting the significance of the 'Bell of Pontus' in Pontic literature.

World Poetry Day is celebrated each year on March 21, a project originally inspired and proposed by poet Michail Mitras, who presented his idea to the Society of Greek Writers in the fall of 1997. By 1999, this celebration was officially adopted by UNESCO, marking a global acknowledgment of poetry's importance across cultures. In Greece, this day has become an opportunity to pay homage to the literary contributions of various cultural groups, especially those with rich poetic traditions such as the Pontic Greeks.

The Pontic dialect has given rise to significant poetic works, among which stands out the masterpiece 'The Bell of Pontus' by Filon Ktenidis. This epic poem is a prominent representation of the Pontic Greek identity, characterized by themes of nostalgia, love, pain, pride, and a deep faith in the destiny of the nation. Ktenidis, a notable Pontic physician and intellectual, highlighted the historical significance of his work as it narrates the epic saga of the Fall of Trebizond, marking the end of the Pontus Empire. His reflections combine personal and collective identities and draw attention to the cultural resilience of the Pontic Greeks.

As we celebrate World Poetry Day, the recognition of works like 'The Bell of Pontus' serves not only to honor the artistry of Pontic letters but also to reflect on the historical experiences and struggles of the Pontic Greek community. Such celebrations reaffirm the importance of preserving local dialects and traditions in the face of globalizing pressures, ensuring that unique voices continue to resonate throughout the world.

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