Poetry of the Taliban – Alex Strick Van Linschoten, Felix Kuehn, Faisal Devji, Mirwais Rahmany, Hamid Stanikzai | Paperback | Oxford University Press

Product Details

• Title: Poetry of the Taliban
• Authors: Alex Strick Van Linschoten, Felix Kuehn, Faisal Devji, Mirwais Rahmany, Hamid Stanikzai
• ISBN-13: 9780199066964 / 978-0199066964
• ISBN-10: 0199066965
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication Year: 2012
• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• Pages: 248

Overview

Poetry of the Taliban is a unique and controversial collection of poetry that provides rare insight into the thoughts, emotions, and expressions of the Taliban. Compiled by Alex Strick Van Linschoten and Felix Kuehn, with contributions from Faisal Devji, Mirwais Rahmany, and Hamid Stanikzai, this book presents a different perspective on the Taliban movement, one that is often overlooked in mainstream narratives.

The collection showcases poems written by Taliban members and sympathizers, covering a range of themes such as love, loss, war, faith, resistance, and nostalgia. These poems are not just political or militant rhetoric but also reflections on Afghan identity, tradition, and personal emotions.

While the book does not endorse any political ideology, it offers readers a rare opportunity to explore the poetic tradition within the Taliban movement, presenting these verses as a means of cultural and personal expression rather than simply as propaganda.

This collection challenges conventional perceptions and invites readers to engage with the human and literary dimensions of an often misunderstood group.

Product Features

✔ Paperback edition with 248 pages of translated poetry and critical analysis.
✔ A rare literary insight into the world of the Taliban beyond political and military narratives.
✔ Poems covering a variety of themes, including war, love, religion, and loss.
✔ Introductions and critical essays providing context to the poems.
✔ Authored and edited by experts on Afghanistan, Middle Eastern studies, and conflict studies.
✔ Published by Oxford University Press, ensuring academic rigor and authenticity.

Interesting Facts

A Different Perspective: The Taliban’s use of poetry as a cultural and emotional outlet is often overlooked in mainstream discussions.
Historical Significance: Poetry has long been a powerful tradition in Afghan culture, used to convey messages of love, faith, resistance, and honor.
Beyond Politics: While some poems express political and militant themes, others reflect personal longing, spiritual devotion, and romantic emotions.
A Rich Literary Tradition: The collection highlights how even in war-torn societies, poetry remains a vital and powerful means of expression.

Who Should Read This Book?

Academics & Scholars – Ideal for those studying Afghan history, literature, Middle Eastern conflict, and political movements.
Journalists & Historians – A valuable resource for understanding the Taliban from a cultural and literary perspective.
Poetry & Literature Enthusiasts – Offers a compelling exploration of poetry’s role in shaping narratives, emotions, and identity.
Anyone Interested in Contemporary Afghan Studies – A thought-provoking read for those seeking a nuanced understanding of Afghan cultural expressions.

Publisher Details

Published by Oxford University Press, this collection stands as an important literary and historical document, providing a fresh perspective on Taliban poetry within the larger framework of Afghan cultural traditions.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your reviews and insights on this thought-provoking collection.

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#AfghanPoetry #TalibanPoetry #MiddleEasternStudies #AfghanistanLiterature #CulturalStudies #PoetryOfConflict #OxfordUniversityPress #PoliticalPoetry #WarAndLiterature