Karbala as a poetic metaphor in Mustafa Zaidi’s Poetry

مصطفیٰ زیدی کی شاعری میں کربلا کا استعارہ

Abstract

The Battle of Karbala, a pivotal event in Islamic history, has served as a profound source of inspiration for poets across generations. In the poetry of Mustafa Zaidi, Karbala emerges not merely as a historical incident but as a powerful metaphor for themes of sacrifice, justice, and resistance against tyranny. This paper explores how Zaidi intricately weaves the narrative of Karbala into his poetic expressions, utilizing its imagery and emotional weight to convey deeper philosophical and existential reflections. Through a close reading of selected poems, the study highlights the ways in which Zaidi employs Karbala to address contemporary issues, offering a lens through which readers can understand the ongoing struggles for justice and moral integrity. The examination reveals that for Zaidi, Karbala transcends its historical context, becoming a timeless symbol of human resilience and the quest for truth in the face of oppression.

Key Words: Karbala, Mustafa Zaidi, poetry, metaphor, sacrifice, justice, resistance, tyranny, existentialism, Islamic history