Understanding Unrequited Love in Ahmad Faraz's Ghazal: 'Ranjish Hi Sahi'

All verses are translated from Urdu to English to ensure the reader's comprehension.

Themes and Meaning

The poem 'Ranjish Hi Sahi' by the famous Urdu poet Ahmad Faraz delves into the complex emotions surrounding unrequited love. Here, we explore the thematic elements and deep emotional resonance of this celebrated ghazal.

Unrequited Love and Its Pain

Unrequited Love: The ghazal reflects the anguish of love that is not reciprocated. The speaker acknowledges the heart-wrenching pain yet yearns for the beloved. This section analyzes the pain and unfulfilled desires described in the ghazal, emphasizing the poet's emotional journey.

Emotional Vulnerability and Deep Connection

Emotional Vulnerability: Faraz presents his vulnerability, suggesting that even in the face of pain, the connection to the beloved is worth it. This reflection of deep emotional honesty underscores the value of emotional intimacy.

Desire for Connection Through Sorrow

Desire for Connection: Despite the hardships, there is a longing for any form of connection with the beloved, even if it comes through sorrow. The speaker implies that any interaction, even if painful, is preferable to absence.

Beauty in Suffering

Beauty in Suffering: Faraz captures the paradox of finding beauty in suffering. The pain of love becomes a powerful muse, inspiring poetic expression and profound reflection on human emotions.

Structure and Style

Ghazal Form

The ghazal consists of couplets that can stand alone thematically yet work together to create a cohesive emotional experience. Each couplet explores different facets of love and longing, contributing to the overall narrative of the poem.

Imagery and Language

Imagery and Language: Faraz employs rich imagery and lyrical language to evoke deep emotions. His choice of words often conveys a sense of nostalgia and yearning, enhancing the emotional depth of the ghazal.

A closer look at 'Ranjish Hi Sahi'

The phrase 'Ranjish Hi Sahi' means 'if nothing else at least there’s resentment', highlighting the acceptance of pain as an inevitable part of love. This poem resonates with those who have experienced the anguish of unfulfilled love, sharing the poet's inner turmoil and his struggle to come to terms with separation.

Pindar-ae-Muhobbat (Pride of Devotion)

Pindar-ae-muhobbat: This line means 'the pride of my devotion'. Faraz deliberately uses this phrase to reclaim the concept of love despite its pain. It represents the poet's pride and commitment to his feelings, even when they bring sorrow.

Sher Analysis

Ek umr se huun lazzat-ae-girya se bhi meherrom: 'For a long time I have not cried… Now the sake of the relief for my pain… please help me cry.'

This line captures the poet's emotional journey from despair to seeking solace in tears. It reflects a desperate need for expression and relief from the pain of unrequited love.

Dil-ae-khush faham… a heart that wants to live in an illusion of joy… Ek akhiir shamm… my last hope of survival: This couplet conveys the speaker's desire for joy, even in the illusion of it, and the final hope for survival. It highlights the deep emotional resilience of the speaker.

Through these lines, Faraz delves into the complex emotions of despair, longing, and the enduring hope for connection, capturing the essence of unrequited love in the ghazal 'Ranjish Hi Sahi'. His use of imagery and emotional depth makes this poem a testament to the enduring power of love and the human condition.