Malta’s Literary Heavyweights: Dun Karm Psaila - The National Poet of Malta
In this series we will discuss different literary heavyweights from Malta who had an impact on our culture and, in some cases, foreign culture as well. Dun Karm Psaila is the national poet of Malta. Dun Karm's poetry, with its well-honed language and topical themes, continues to resonate despite being . In this article, we will delve into the life and literary contributions of Dun Karm Psaila, exploring why he is considered a cultural icon in Malta and beyond.
Source: L-Akkademja tal-Malti
Early Life and Education
Dun Karm Psaila, born on October 18, 1871, in the village of Żebbuġ, Malta, was christened as Carmelo Psaila. The honorific "Dun" is a title commonly given to Maltese parish priests and is equivalent to "Father" in English. Dun Karm's father was a cobbler, and his family's modest background shaped his early life and social views. Despite their limited means, his parents recognized his intellectual potential and encouraged his education.
Dun Karm Psaila attended the Seminary of Gozo, where he began to display an extraordinary aptitude for languages and literature. His studies in Latin and Italian provided him with a solid foundation in classical poetry and literary theory. These formative years laid the groundwork for his future career as a poet.
Ordination and Literary Pursuits
After completing his studies at the seminary, Dun Karm decided to follow the calling of the priesthood. In 1894, he was ordained as a priest, and his ecclesiastical duties brought him to various parishes across Malta. It was during this time that he adopted the name "Dun Karm," a common practice among priests.
It was here that Dun Karm Psaila continued to pursue his passion for literature and poetry. His work was deeply influenced by the Romantic and Symbolist movements, and he drew inspiration from the rugged beauty of Malta's landscapes and its cultural traditions. His poems often celebrated the idyllic, rural life of the Maltese people, portraying their resilience and close connection to the land.
Contributions to Maltese Literature
Dun Karm Psaila's most significant contribution to Maltese literature is his role in shaping the language as a literary medium in and of itself. Before his time, Maltese was primarily a spoken language, with its literary heritage predominantly rooted in Italian and Latin. Dun Karm's efforts to elevate Maltese to a literary language earned him the title "Il-Poeta Nazzjonali" (The National Poet).
This is particularly interesting, as prior to 1912, Dun Karm exclusively penned his works in Italian. His initial published poem, "La Dignità Episcopale" (1889), marked the beginning of his literary journey. Subsequently, he released "Foglie d'Alloro" (1896) and "Versi" (1903), both collections featuring Italian poetry. Dun Karm's venture into Maltese literature commenced with "Quddiem Xbieha tal-Madonna," his maiden Maltese poem, published in the inaugural edition of the Maltese periodical "Il-Ħabib," overseen by Pawl Galea and Ġużè Muscat Azzopardi. Among his most renowned works is "Il-Musbieħ tal-Mużew".
Many of Dun Karm's poems have been translated into English, some have been translated into Spanish while French-Maltese writer Laurent Ropa translated "Il-Jien u lil hinn Minnu" into French.
Dun Karm's literary contributions extend beyond poetry, encompassing "Żewġ Anġli: Inez u Emilia," translated in 1934 from an Italian novel. Additionally, he delved into critical works and compiled a three-volume English-Maltese dictionary between 1947 and 1955, titled "Dizzjunarju Ingliż u Malti."
Dun Karm's poetry reflects a deep love for his homeland and its people. His work often explored themes of identity, patriotism, and spirituality. The poem "L-Innu Malti" (The Maltese Hymn) would eventually become the national anthem, and thus further solidified his place in the hearts of his fellow countrymen.
Dun Karm Psaila's poems played a crucial role in nurturing a sense of national identity among the Maltese people during a period of political and social transformation. His works, deeply rooted in Maltese culture and traditions, celebrated the strength and resilience of the inhabitants. At a time when Malta was a British colony, his poetry provided a voice for those who yearned for self-determination and a stronger national identity.
The poem "Fl-Għaqda tat-Tfal" exemplifies Dun Karm's commitment to instilling a sense of patriotism and unity. In this poem, he beautifully captures the innocence and hope of Maltese children while instilling in them a love for their homeland.
Legacy and Recognition
Dun Karm Psaila's legacy extends far beyond his lifetime. In 1961, Malta declared his birthday, October 18th, as a national holiday known as "Jum Dun Karm" (Dun Karm Day) to honor his memory.
In 1969, the Maltese government issued a series of postage stamps bearing his image, further cementing his status as a national icon. Additionally, his poems continue to be studied in Maltese schools, ensuring that future generations remain connected to their cultural and literary heritage.
Dun Karm Psaila, the national poet of Malta, poetry remains a source of inspiration, not just for the people of Malta but for anyone who values the power of language and its ability to express the depth of human emotion and in fostering or changing national identity.
Kurt, OLS Community Manager – Maltese