Issa, Suleiman al- (1921-): Syrian poet. Born in No'airiyah, near Antioch in the Iskenderun province, now Turkish controlled. He studied in Antioch and in the Teachers School of Baghdad, Iraq. Back in Syria, he taught Arabic language and joined the Baath Party. His poetry is mainly national and political. He was imprisoned because of his opposition to the French Mandate. He is also famous for his children rhythms, which Syrians learned and recited in their early school years. His works include Ma'al Fajr (With the Dawn), A'aseer fil Salasel (Storms in chains), Dayaa' al Zohoor (The Loss of Flowers).