Rabi'at of Mustafa Zaidi

مصطفی زیدی کی رباعیات

Abstract

The Rubai is a classical poetic form consisting of four lines, where the first, second, and fourth lines share the same rhyme, following an AABA rhyme scheme. This structure allows for a concise but profound expression of thought, often philosophical or reflective. Mustafa Zaidi, a renowned poet known for his romantic and progressive themes, embraced this form alongside his more famous work in Nazm. Although Nazm remains his hallmark, Zaidi also ventured into other poetic forms such as the Ghazal, Qataa, and Rubai, demonstrating his wide-ranging literary talent. Zaidi’s Rubaiyyat reflects a deep engagement with the traditional structures of Eastern poetry, influenced by the legendary poets Josh Malihabadi and Firaq Gorakhpuri. Their influence is evident in Zaidi's stylistic choices, thematic depth, and ability to infuse modern progressive ideas into classical forms. The Rubai provided Zaidi with a platform to experiment with brevity while maintaining lyrical intensity, making his contributions to this genre a unique blend of personal expression and cultural heritage.