Ibn Zaydun’s Poem Al-Qafiyyah: A Stylistic Reading

Abstract

This study presents a stylistic interpretation of Ibn Zaydun’s renowned Qafiyyah poem, seeking to identify its dominant stylistic features and the ways in which phonological, syntactic, and semantic structures intertwine to enrich the poetic experience. Using a stylistic methodology, the research analyzes the text across three levels. At the phonological level, the poem reveals a marked prevalence of voiced and plosive sounds that contribute to its emphatic tonal quality. At the syntactic level, Ibn Zaydun’s reliance on verbal sentences—especially those in the past tense—creates a dynamic narrative rhythm. At the semantic level, metaphorical imagery dominates, with nature serving as a central partner in crafting emotionally charged representations. Preceded by a brief introduction to the poet’s life and the basics of stylistics, the analysis demonstrates how these stylistic choices work collectively to articulate a persistent voice of longing addressed to Wallada, whose abandonment deeply shaped the poem’s emotional core. Through its layered stylistic textures, the poem emerges as a heartfelt plea aimed at rekindling the intimacy of past encounters, showcasing Ibn Zaydun’s mastery in mobilizing language to express emotional resilience and desire.