Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Agha Shahid Ali's poem "Of Light" is a stunning ghazal, a form that he skillfully adapted from classical Persian poetry into English. The ghazal is characterized by couplets that are thematically independent yet linked by a repeated word or phrase—in this case, "of light." This structure allows Ali to explore the theme of light in multifaceted ways, creating a tapestry of images and ideas that resonate with each other across the poem.

The poem opens with an evocation of dawn, a time when light is both literal and metaphorical, signifying departure and the beginning of a new day. This motif of light continues through each couplet, taking on different connotations—love, grief, rebirth, history, and divinity.

In one couplet, Ali writes, "I swallow down the goodbyes I won't get to use." Here, light is a metaphor for fleeting moments and unspoken farewells, encapsulating the transient nature of human experiences. The imagery of a palanquin of light further underscores the notion of light as a vehicle for emotional journeys.

The reference to a phoenix in a coffin of light is particularly striking. It suggests transformation and rebirth, themes central to Ali's work. The phoenix, arising from its ashes, symbolizes resilience and the enduring nature of the spirit, even amidst destruction and loss.

Ali also delves into historical and mythological dimensions, referencing Prometheus, who defied the gods to bring light (and knowledge) to humanity. This allusion adds a layer of defiance and rebellion to the poem, suggesting that light is not just a passive element but a force of change and enlightenment.

The poem navigates through various landscapes—both internal and external—illuminated by light. From the personal ("When I go off alone, as if listening for God") to the universal ("We'll see Manhattan, a bride in diamonds"), Ali uses light to bridge the gap between the solitary and the communal, the mundane and the extraordinary.

In the closing lines, the poem takes a turn towards an apocalyptic vision, where empty streets and tombs suggest a world bereft of light, both literally and metaphorically. This culminates in a profound meditation on the nature of existence, knowledge, and the human condition.

"Of Light" is a masterful poem that showcases Agha Shahid Ali's ability to infuse traditional poetic forms with contemporary sensibilities. Through the motif of light, he explores a wide range of emotions and ideas, from love and loss to history and myth, making the poem a rich and resonant work that invites multiple readings and interpretations

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