TREES AND SHADOWS IN THE POETRY OF JAWDAT FAKHREDDINE: A STUDY OF THE COLLECTION FĪ SHUʾŪN AL-BAṢĪRAH (ON MATTERS OF INSIGHT)

Abstract

This study examines the symbolism of trees and shadows in the latest diwan of the contemporary Lebanese poet Juddah Fakhr al-Din, entitled Fi Shu’un al-Basirah (“On Matters of Insight”). Nature constitutes a central theme in the poet’s oeuvre, which has been addressed by critics and researchers in his previous works; however, this particular diwan has not yet received significant scholarly attention. Accordingly, this study focuses on the binary of trees and shadows, as the poet employs them in varied ways that enrich his poetic language. The study demonstrates how Fakhr al-Din frames themes of renewal, fertility, and infinity at the heart of his poetic experience, using trees and shadows as prominent natural elements. For him, trees signify rootedness, resilience, and upward growth, whereas shadows represent extensions of the self, sometimes elusive, at other times familiar, guiding, or consoling. The interplay between these two elements generates dynamic imagery and conveys profound philosophical concepts. The study further highlights stylistic distinctions between earlier approaches adopted by the poet and more recent treatments across the two parts of the new diwan. It also sheds light on a poetic language that oscillates between simplicity and depth, employing simile, metaphor, and rhythm to articulate the poet’s vision of the universe.