We thought it would be more in keeping with the tone that we are aiming for if we adopted the name Waq al-waq (Waq waq is also acceptable).
Those of you who are familiar with the story cycle of Sayf bin Dhi Yazan, or the work of Muhammad Mahmud al-Zubayri or even, and I'm reaching here, Yaqut al-Hamawi's Mu'ajim al-Buldan will understand. As for the rest, well, Waq al-waq is just more fun to say.
This blog was started for a few reasons.We both have been studying Yemen for years, and as the country has risen in importance, the quality of discussion has declined.We wanted to contradict some other individuals, blogs and commentators who have no experience in Yemen or with Arabic, and who turn the facts to fit their opinions.We feel that presenting a thoughtful and nuanced discussion of Yemeni affairs, based in knowledge of its history and culture is in the best interest of all.That said, this is not an academic blog, and provides a lighter tone than our other publications, and also allows us to indulge our unhealthy interests in medieval swords and mysterious islands that color Yemeni history.
Yemen and fears of secession is the topic of the "Big Question" over at World Policy Journal's blog. I helped a bit with the project - not in putting it together, as I have no technical expertise, but I did answer some questions.
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New from Fred Halliday:
The Travails of Yemen Unity
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