Rafik Shami Syrian and German writer. Date of Birth: 23.06.1946 Country: Syria

Biography of Rafik Schami

Rafik Schami is a Syrian-German writer, known for his contributions to both Arabic and German literature. He was born into an Arab Christian (Aramean) family and grew up as the son of a baker. He studied at a Jesuit school in Lebanon and later completed his university education in Damascus, earning a degree in chemistry.

In 1965, Schami began writing prose in Arabic. In 1971, he moved to Heidelberg, Germany, where he worked as a migrant worker to support his studies. He took on various jobs including work in a factory, a restaurant, and construction sites. During this time, he also started learning German. In 1979, he obtained a doctorate degree in chemistry and began working in the chemical industry.

Schami is the founder of the literary group "Südwind" (South Wind) and the PoLiKunst movement (Polyethnic Literary and Artistic Community). After 1982, he dedicated himself solely to literature, writing in German and organizing literary events. He currently lives with his family in Kirchheimbolanden, southwest Germany.

As one of the prominent figures in "guest worker literature" or "migrant literature," Schami's works are influenced by the traditions of Arabic storytelling and fables. He also ventures into fantasy genres, writes plays, and books for children.

Some of his notable works include "The Smiling Sheep: Fairytales and Fables" (1982), "The Flying Tree: The Most Beautiful Fairytales, Fables, and Fantastic Stories" (1991), and "The Longing of the Swallow" (2000), a novel.