Arabic Poems (Everyman's Library Pocket Poets Series)

Experience the rich and captivating world of Arabic poetry with "Arabic Poems Everyman's Library Pocket Poets Series Hardcover". This anthology, curated by Marlé Hammond, offers a wide range of poems that span over fifteen centuries, representing the breadth and depth of the Arabic poetic legacy. From its early days as part of an oral tradition to its recording in writing during the second and third Islamic centuries, Arabic poetry has served as a vital form of expression. It entertained, delighted, and memorialized individuals, communities, and events.

Today, it continues to hold a special place in the public domain, captivating both the elites and the masses. In this anthology, you will find poems that reflect sentiments of desire and longing, transcending the limitations of time and space. Marlé Hammond carefully selected pieces that lend coherence to the collection, ensuring they appeal to both poetry enthusiasts and those who are new to Arabic poetry. You will encounter a variety of genres, including love poetry (ghazal), mystical poems, and elegies.

Each poem takes you on a journey, evoking emotions and engaging your imagination. The anthology features renowned works like the Mu'allaqat, which contemplates the beloved's abandoned campsite, invoking cycles of life and nature. You will also encounter Al-Shanfara's "L-Poem," a portrayal of loneliness and yearning for companionship and family. The collection showcases the ancient genre of "longing for homelands" (al-hanin ila alawtan) through the poignant "Song of Maisuna," as well as modern selections that express a deep yearning for change. Whether you appreciate the sheer delight of everyday affairs or seek thought-provoking poetry that challenges the status quo, "Arabic Poems Everyman's Library Pocket Poets Series Hardcover" has something for every reader.

Lose yourself in the beauty of Arabic poetry, and let these poems inspire and move you. Please note that pre-modern Arabic poems were not originally assigned titles. The titles in this anthology have either been given by the translators or drawn from the wording of the poem itself. Immerse yourself in this timeless collection and discover the power of Arabic poetry.