The Dynamics of Meaning and Semantic Structures in the Poem of Ibn Lubban al-Sharishi

Abstract Investigating the meaning dynamics and semantic structures in a poem is a criticism model that focuses on the register and the poetic aspects that poets choose for activating semantic elements. The relationship between meaning and meaning-creating elements is a strong one so that every poet takes advantages of it. This paper aimed at exploring the linguistic effects and meaning-making structures in the poems of Ibn Lubban. Therefore, using a descriptive and analytical method, the paper focused on the obvious elements used by the poet. The findings indicated that Ibn Lubban took advantage of repetition for showing happiness. Moreover, meaning-communicating elements can be seen in his poetry. Lexical diversity in some parts of his poem intensified the semantic effect. The poet used diversity in his poem to create the necessary and intended meaning in the text like hatred from the judgment in his city. Undoubtedly, synonyms with the same meaning and referent that have an important role in emphasizing the intended meaning are of many uses in Ibn Lubban’ poetry. Moreover, word plays, interrogative structures, the centralization of meaning, positive aspects of puzzle and riddles, and the opening of a poem are among the means that Ibn Lubban used to add to the merit of his poem, meaning dynamics and diversification of meaning. He used these to challenge audiences’ understanding and make them try to discover the intended meaning.