Postmodern Ghazal

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 with traditional Persian poetic forms such as ghazal, mathnawi, and rubaiyat. This movement combines postmodern philosophy, linguistics, and sociology with the metrical and rhymed structures of classical Persian poetry.

Postmodern Ghazal

Collections of Postmodern Ghazals
Location	Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan
Influences	Reza Baraheni, the Persian Language Poetry movement
Influenced	Progressive songwriting

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