Antithesis in the Poetry of Al-Abbas ibn al-Ahnaf

Abstract

Qays ibn al-Mulawwah was a poet known for his refined style and beautiful expression. Contradiction (antithesis) in his poetry was a prominent feature and a central means of conveying the meanings he wished to express. Whenever he spoke of love, he was overwhelmed by longing and sorrow. In our study of antithesis in his love poetry, we found that it played a clear and evident role. He used antithesis as a means to express his pain and wounds, and to relieve himself of his suffering, which did not diminish the intensity of his love for Layla- that passionate love characterized by sincerity and the warmth of emotion.

His pain often appeared as if he were painting a picture or composing a scene. The image of pain would merge with the image of hope, creating a clear scene that seemed visible before our eyes.