I wrote those poems for myself, as a way of being a soldier here in this country. I didn't know the poems would travel. I didn't go to Lebanon until two years ago, but people told me that many Arabs had memorized these poems and translated them into Arabic.

Summary

In this quote, the speaker explains that the purpose of writing their poems was personal, intended to serve as a form of resistance and expression within their own country. They did not anticipate the poems gaining popularity or reaching a wider audience. However, they were surprised to learn that their work had resonated with many individuals in Lebanon, who not only memorized the poems but also translated them into Arabic. The quote highlights the unexpected impact and reach of the speaker's art.