Ecocritical Mind and Language of Nimā Yushij and Manuchehr Ātashi

Persian poetry has long reflected nature and its manifestations, using a language that beautifully illustrates the close connection between natural phenomena and poetic thought. The mode of expression in these poems skillfully convey this connection through vivid description of nature, the incorporation of symbolic imagery, and allegories drawn from the natural world. However, the advent of the industrial revolution and the subsequent rise of machinery, which affected various aspects of human existence, significantly altered the bond between humans and nature. As humans positioned themselves as superior to nature, an imbalanced and one-sided relationship ensued. In response, ecocriticism has emerged as a discipline aiming to explore the intricate relationship between literature and the surrounding natural environment. Ecocritical scholars deploy diverse approaches to examine how nature and its manifestations are depicted in literary texts. This article specifically delves into the linguistic features of two notable Persian poets, Nimā Yushij and Manuchehr Ātashi, in their representation of nature and its manifestations. Nimā believes that no word possesses inherent poetic qualities; rather, its usage and function determine its poetic merit. On the other hand, Ātashi employs a rich and evocative language imbued with warm climatic emotions, using beautiful poetic interpretations, fresh expressions, thematic exploration, and novel metaphors that encapsulate the vibrant environment of the southern regions. Ātashi’s poetry incorporates archaic words to convey strength, while the inclusion of Arabic words enhances the natural rhythm of colloquial speech. Both poets showcase innovative styles influenced by their respective local dialects. In Nimā’s poems, natural elements serve as symbols representing cultural and social concepts, whereas Ātashi’s use of regional vocabulary intends to familiarize the readers with the specific characteristics of the southern environment and its conditions. In Ātashi’s poetry, readers encounter a juxtaposition of native violence and poetic delicacy. Words such as sabakhzār, kahareh, and titermuk evoke imagery reminiscent of dārug and mākhulā found in Nimā’s poetry, while simultaneously conjuring up images of the southern landscape in the reader’s mind.