TRADITION IN YAHYA AL-SAMAWY’S POEMS: MANIFESTATIONS FROM POEMINSCRIPTIONS ON A PALM TREE

Abstract

This research attempts an analysis of Yahya Al-Samawy’s poems, mainly his poem Inscriptions on a palm tree, by shedding light on the poetic imagery contained in this poem. Firstly, the paper introduces the topic as to the generic scope and context of analysis, including preliminary notes on poetic imagery, traditional themes in poetry, and modern poetry. Then, the research draws on traditional and religious themes in modern poetry with emphasis on Al-Samawy’s poems. Finally, the research states a few conclusions. The research finds that Al-Samawy utilizes tradition, history, and religion to enrich his poems with poetic images in order to highlight themes embodied in these poems. Additionally, the poet integrates tradition in poetry to manifest his own knowledge in local traditions. The research finds also that the poet is well aware of local environment represented by historical, religious, and traditional aspects, all of which are re-told and re-introduced in his poems to create a past-present connection.