| Postmodern Ghazal | |
| Years Active: | Since the mid-1990s |
| Country: | Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan |
| Major Figures: | Mehdi Mousavi, Fatemeh Ekhtesari, Elham Mizban, Mohammad Hosseini Moghaddam, Andisheh Fouladvand, Mona Zendehdel, Hoda Ghorayshi, Mohsen Asi, Tahereh Kopali, Vahid Najafi, Amir Sanjari, Ali Karimi Kolaye, Alireza Nasimi, Ashraf Gilani |
| Influences: | Reza Baraheni, the Persian Language Poetry movement |
| Influenced: | Progressive songwriting |
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.
The Postmodern Ghazal originated during the 1990s in Iran, heavily influenced by Reza Baraheni's linguistic experiments.[1] 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.[2]
This genre reflects the paradoxes of modern life, with themes often focusing on taboo subjects and challenging traditional norms.[3]
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.
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.[4]
Other key contributors include:- Fatemeh Ekhtesari, known for exploring feminist and existential themes.- Elham Mizban, who integrates modern social issues with classical structures.
By the 2000s, the movement spread to Persian-speaking communities in Afghanistan and Tajikistan, gaining traction among younger audiences.[5]
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.[6]