Psychological significations in the poetry of Ibn al-Mu'tazz

Abstract

This study aims to explore the psychological dimension in the poetry of Abdullah ibn al-Mu'tazz and to analyze the impact of his personal experiences and political and social circumstances on his poetic output, with a focus on the relationship between the poet’s psyche and his creative work. The research highlights how his inner conflicts-whether emotional, social, or political—are reflected in the themes and artistic techniques of his poetry, showing that his poetry is not merely an aesthetic tool but a means of expressing psychological struggles. Through psychoanalytic analysis, it becomes evident that psychological anxiety and the search for self were influential factors in shaping his poetic vision, as he employed metaphors and figurative imagery to embody his moods and human experiences. The study also emphasizes the artistic mechanisms, such as the internal rhythm of the poem, cadence, and figurative expressions, which helped the poet convey his feelings with depth and sincerity. Furthermore, the research indicates that the relationship between creative work and psychoanalysis is not one-way; each nourishes the other. Understanding the poet’s psychology explains his artistic choices, while his poetry allows for deeper exploration of his inner self. Hence, examining Abdullah ibn al-Mu'tazz’s psyche through his poetry provides an integrated perspective on how personal experiences and external circumstances shape poetic creativity closely linked to the poet’s psychological state.