FUNCTIONAL ROLE OF REPETITION IN SHAHRIYAR’S PERSIAN-LANGUAGE DIVAN

Abstract

Mohammad-Hossein Shahriyar is one of the rare artists in classical poetry who masterfully utilizes the functional potential of repetition. In his poetic legacy, repetition is presented not only formally but also with rich and multi-functional content. The repetitions found in Shahriyar’s ghazals often serve several poetic purposes simultaneously, clearly reflecting the poet’s refined aesthetic taste and artistic mastery.
The lyrical part of Shahriyar’s Divan is enriched with various poetic devices, particularly lexical repetitions. These repetitions are not merely used to create poetic rhythm and harmony but also serve to enhance emotional impact and deepen meaning. While in the works of many classical poets repetition primarily establishes rhythmic structure and harmony, in Shahriyar’s poetry it also plays key roles such as intensifying emotional expression, emphasizing the main idea, revealing symbolic meanings, enhancing metaphorical depth, and reinforcing imagery. For instance, a single word used in a couplet can simultaneously function as a lexical repetition, semantic emphasis, and emotional trigger. This illustrates that repetition, beyond being a classical poetic figure, holds a crucial place in forming the internal structure of the text and establishing an emotional connection with the reader. In Shahriyar’s poetry, repetition is not merely a poetic embellishment or rhythmic tool; it functions as a multi-layered and integral component of the poetic system. This characteristic distinctly sets him apart from other poets.