* Exposure to Arabic Literature: Growing up in Lebanon, Gibran was exposed to a rich literary tradition, particularly Arabic poetry and prose. He was also influenced by the works of classical Arab writers like Khalil Mkhaïl.
* His Father's Influence: His father, a devout Maronite Christian, was a calligrapher and bookbinder who instilled in him a deep appreciation for language and the written word.
* His Education: He attended a local school that emphasized literature and philosophy, further nurturing his love for storytelling and creative expression.
* His Experience with Poverty: Gibran's family faced poverty and hardship, which likely fueled his desire to use literature as a means of escape, social commentary, and ultimately, a form of artistic expression.
* Personal Experiences: Gibran's own experiences of love, loss, and spiritual searching also found their way into his writing, adding depth and authenticity to his work.
While it's difficult to pinpoint one specific moment, it's likely that a confluence of these factors contributed to Gibran's early interest in literature, paving the way for his later success as a celebrated writer and artist.