Glory Poem by Hafiz Muhammad Qasim

The poem 'Glory' by Hafiz Muhammad Qasim is structured in a rhyming free verse format. It is composed of six couplets, with each couplet generally having a similar length and a balanced rhythm. This structure contributes to the poem's lyrical flow and the emphasis on the theme of truth and its importance. **Key Themes: ** 1. **Truthfulness and Glory: ** The poem prominently focuses on the concept that the true source of glory is found in being truthful. It emphasizes the idea that one's inner truth is linked to a deeper sense of glory or virtue. 2. **Self-Truth and Identity: ** There is a theme of discovering and embracing one's true self, which is intertwined with the idea of glory. By being truthful to oneself, one can come to possess a unique form of glory that is not dependent on external validation. 3. **Reward in the Afterlife: ** The poem suggests that following the path of truthfulness has implications beyond the present life, extending into the afterlife, implying that truth leads to a lasting and eternal glory. 4. **Responsibility and Action: ** The poem calls for the pursuit of truth, but it also hints at the responsibility one has to act upon it, which includes the pursuit of livelihood and work. **Symbolism: ** 1. **Path of Glory and Truth: ** The path itself symbolizes the journey one must take to find glory and truth. It represents the journey from ignorance to wisdom, from self-deception to self-awareness. 2. **Unknown Heir: ** The reference to the 'heir of unknown' can symbolize the mysteries and hidden truths of life that one can discover through the process of truthfulness. 3. **City and Livelihood: ** The poem's mention of a city and livelihood can symbolize the practical aspects of living out one's truth and the responsibilities that come with being an honest and contributing member of society. **Literary Devices: ** 1. **Metaphor: ** The comparison of truthfulness to a path or a journey is a clear metaphor for life's quest for truth. 2. **Imperative Voice: ** The poem is written in the imperative voice, which commands and exhorts the reader to follow the path of truth and take action, underscoring the urgency of its message. 3. **Repetition: ** There is repetition of certain phrases ('no more...') which serves to emphasize the change that occurs once the path of truth is followed. 4. **Personification: ** The phrase 'O Omnicient help me' gives a personality to a deity, personifying the divine force that the poet seeks guidance from. **Tone: ** The tone of the poem is a blend of inspiration, determination, and urgency. It is inspiring in its call to follow the path of truth, and it is determined in its declaration that truth is worth pursuing. The tone is urgent, with an underlying sense that there is a limited time to act on one's truths, suggesting a need for immediacy and commitment. There is also a tone of modesty and reverence in the plea for divine guidance.