mesnevi

Mesnevi is a form of Persian poetry that is typically written in rhyming couplets. The term "mesnevi" itself comes from the Arabic word meaning "two by two," referring to the rhyming structure. This poetic form is characterized by its length and its ability to tell a story or explore a theme in detail. Unlike the ghazal, which is usually shorter and focuses on love or mystical themes, the mesnevi can encompass a wide range of subjects, including epic tales, philosophical discussions, didactic narratives, and even historical accounts.

The mesnevi form gained significant prominence in Persian literature, with notable examples from poets like Rumi, Nizami Ganjavi, and Attar. Rumi's Masnavi, often referred to as the "Masnavi-ye Ma'navi" (Spiritual Couplets), is perhaps the most famous mesnevi, a vast collection of anecdotes and teachings intended to guide the reader towards spiritual enlightenment. Nizami Ganjavi is renowned for his five mesnevis, known collectively as the Khamsa (Quintet), which are celebrated for their romantic narratives and intricate storytelling. The flexibility of the mesnevi form allowed poets to develop complex plots and delve into various aspects of human experience and wisdom. Its rhyming couplet structure, with each couplet rhyming independently, provides a natural flow for extended narratives.