Classical Arabic begging poetry and šakwā, 8th-12th centuries

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This monograph explores the history of two lesser-known genres of classical Arabic poetry—begging and complaint (šakwā)—from their origins to the end of the 12th century, examining them in parallel due to their interrelation. Begging poems serve as verse petitions to patrons, where poets portray themselves as impoverished and in need, using exaggerated imagery of destitution to evoke sympathy and amusement. In contrast, complaint poetry expresses various grievances, primarily focusing on general discontent with one’s times, contemporaries, and personal financial struggles. The study emphasizes these two grievance categories closely linked to begging verse, highlighting poets' laments about the ignorance and stinginess of their peers, as well as a disregard for culture and talent, which contributed to their misery. Since the 10th century, these themes became clichéd in contemporary poetry, often included as a literary exercise rather than genuine expressions of discontent. Thus, they should not be interpreted literally or seen as subversive literature. This work not only advances the understanding of classical Arabic literature but also appeals to comparatists.