Ghalib: Selected Poems and Letters (Translations from the Asian Classics)

Exploring the Genius of Ghalib: A Comprehensive Collection

An Introduction to Ghalib’s Poetry and Prose
This carefully curated selection of poetry and prose by Ghalib offers an accessible gateway into the work of the preeminent Urdu poet of the nineteenth century. Ghalib’s poetry, especially his ghazals, continues to captivate audiences throughout South Asia with its profound intelligence and lively wit. This collection not only presents his most beloved poems. But also includes his deeply personal letters, which showcase his informal, humorous, and engaging prose style. For readers with little or no knowledge of Urdu, this book provides an opportunity to appreciate the full range of Ghalib’s literary mastery.

Careful Translations and Annotations
The translations by Frances Pritchett and Owen Cornwall are meticulously crafted to maintain line-for-line accuracy. Thus preserving the intricate poetic devices that define Ghalib’s work. These translations allow readers to experience the tension and balance between the two lines of each verse. This is a hallmark of Ghalib’s ghazals. The book begins with a critical introduction that is accessible to both specialists and nonspecialists, offering valuable insights into Ghalib’s poetic form and the cultural context of his work.

A Comprehensive Collection for All Readers
This collection includes entire ghazals, selected verses from other ghazals, poems in various genres, and a selection of Ghalib’s letters. Each piece is carefully annotated to provide context and understanding for readers unfamiliar with Urdu or the poetic traditions Ghalib engaged with. The inclusion of following further enhances the reader’s experience.

• a glossary,
• the original Urdu text,
• and an appendix featuring Ghalib’s own comments on his verses.

 A Must-Read for Poetry Lovers

Whether you are a seasoned scholar or a newcomer to Ghalib’s work, this selection offers a rich and comprehensive exploration of his poetry and prose. The combination of careful translation, insightful annotations, and original Urdu text makes this book an essential resource for anyone interested in the genius of Ghalib.