VOICED: Baghdad marketplace oasis holds 'Iraq of dreams'

Mutanabbi Street in Baghdad is a cultural hub for Iraqi writers and intellectuals, symbolizing the city's enduring spirit. Despite the devastation from the 2003 US-led invasion and a 2007 bombing, the street has recovered and continues to thrive, offering a refuge from the country's instability. The street's history, named after the 10th-century poet Abu Tayeb Mutanabbi, is cherished by locals who frequent its book market and recite poetry. It remains a vital cultural and historical site, representing resilience and hope for many Iraqis.

Describe the impact of violence on the cultural life of Mutanabbi Street.

What personal significance does the street hold for the narrator?