The Postmodern Ghazal, also referred to as **Postmodern or Post-traditional Poetry**, is a literary movement in Persian poetry that emerged during the 1990s in Iran. It blends

postmodernism Postmodernism encompasses a variety of artistic, Culture, cultural, and philosophical movements that claim to mark a break from modernism. They have in common the conviction that it is no longer possible to rely upon previous ways of depicting ...

with traditional Persian poetic forms such as

ghazal ''Ghazal'' is a form of amatory poem or ode, originating in Arabic poetry that often deals with topics of spiritual and romantic love. It may be understood as a poetic expression of both the pain of loss, or separation from the beloved, and t ...

mathnawi Mathnawi ( ), also spelled masnavi, mesnevi or masnawi, is a kind of poem written in rhyming couplets, or more specifically "a poem based on independent, internally rhyming lines". Most mathnawi poems follow a Meter (poetry), meter of eleven, or o ...

, and rubaiyat. This movement combines postmodern philosophy, linguistics, and sociology with the metrical and rhymed structures of classical Persian poetry.

History

The Postmodern Ghazal originated during the 1990s in Iran, heavily influenced by Reza Baraheni's linguistic experiments. The expansion of the internet allowed poets to disseminate their works widely, despite restrictions by the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance. Over time, workshops, festivals, and specialized magazines dedicated to Postmodern Ghazal fostered its development. This genre reflects the paradoxes of modern life, with themes often focusing on taboo subjects and challenging traditional norms.

Characteristics

Postmodern Ghazals retain traditional Persian poetic forms while incorporating modern and critical themes. Key features include: - **Taboo exploration**: Addressing sensitive social and political topics. - **Direct language**: Employing unfiltered and straightforward expressions. - **Philosophical depth**: Reflecting on societal norms, trauma, and identity.

Major figure

Mehdi Mousavi Mehdi Mousavi, also Mehdi Moosavi, also Seyed Mahdi Mousavi (Persian: سید مهدی موسوی)(born 1976) is an Iranian poet. He is known for poems on social issues. Mousavi was arrested in 2013, along with poet Fateme Ekhtesari. Mousavi was ...

is often regarded as the father of Postmodern Ghazal. His influential collections, such as *The Angels Committed Suicide*, and his workshops laid the foundation for this movement. Other key contributors include: - Fatemeh Ekhtesari, known for exploring feminist and existential themes. - Elham Mizban, who integrates modern social issues with classical structures.

Global spread

By the 2000s, the movement spread to Persian-speaking communities in Afghanistan and Tajikistan, gaining traction among younger audiences.

Censorship and challenges

Postmodern Ghazal has faced significant censorship in Iran. Many collections were banned or published underground. Several poets, including

and Fatemeh Ekhtesari, were imprisoned or exiled due to their works.

References

{{Reflist Persian poetry Persian poetic forms Persian literature