The Malta Classics Association will launch its first book publication during a cultural evening being held on Friday at the Razzett tal-Markiż, Mosta, at 8.30 p.m.

The book, entitled Dwar l-Arti tal-Poeżija, is a translation of Aristotle’s Peri Poietikes, traditionally known as Aristotle’s Poetics.

The fully annotated translation was carried out by writer Karmenu Serracino, who also provides a solid background to an understanding of the position of poetry in Greek life and thought, starting from the early epics of Homer. This is the first time that a complete work of Aristotle has been translated into Maltese.

The Poetics, as the work is known, is a short treatise containing the Greek philosopher’s analysis of what constitutes the best tragic drama. A complex and controversial work, it has always been considered a seminal and fundamental text in the history of literary criticism.

Friday’s Dwar l-Arti tal-Poeżija launch is being hosted by the Għaqda Talent Mosti. Throughout the evening actors will perform excerpts from Greek and neoclassical drama and there will also be talks by Horatio Vella and Joe Friggieri.

The book will be on sale for the price of €8.