Akhtar Usman (born 4 April 1969 in Islamabad) is a Pakistani poet, critic, columnist and writer. He is known for his poems on non-traditional subjects. He has written extensively in multiple languages. His works span across various genres such as Ghazal, Nazm, and poem. His published books of poetry including Ashk Aabad, Charagh Zaar, Kuchh Bacha Laye Hain, Sitara Saz, and Tarash.

Akhtar Usman
Born (1969-04-04) April 4, 1969 (age 55)
Islamabad, Pakistan
NationalityPakistani
Occupation(s)Poet, critic, columnist, writer
AwardsAdab Sitara (literary star) by Halqa-i-Arbab-i-Zauq

Career

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Usman is known for his poems on unconventional themes.[1] He has written extensively in Urdu, Persian, Pothohari, Punjabi and English.[2] He has also written in many genres including ghazal, Nazm and poem.[3]

Works

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Several books of Akhtar Usman's poetry have been published.[3][4] His notable works include:

  • Akhtar Usman (2007). Kuchh Bacha Laye Hain.
  • Akhtar Usman (2012). Sitara Saz.
  • Akhtar Usman (2017). Charagh Zaar.[5]
  • Akhtar Usman (2018). Tarash.[6][7]
  • Akhtar Usman (2022). Ashk Aabad.

Chirag Zaar is his latest book of poetry, published in 2017 by Rumail House of Publications, Rawalpindi. It consists mostly of ghazal, one of the most popular genres.[8]

Criticism

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Usman's poetry provides a subtle expression of the interconnectedness of tradition and modernity under the centrality of the creative process and the transformative potential of art. His poetry transcends ethnicity, creed and all other layers, and touches the basic principles of humanity.[9] His poetry also offers some solace and momentary solace even if readers do not believe in the process of change.[10]

Critical evaluation

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Usman's work has been critically reviewed by Halqa-e Arbab-e Zauq, which is known for its tradition of literary criticism. The organization recognized Usman as its Adab Satara (literary star) and praised his poetry and critical skills. His literary approach, which encompasses a global perspective, has been appreciated for enriching discussions at constituency meetings.[11]

References

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  1. ^ "Akhtar Usman - Profile & Biography". Rekhta.
  2. ^ "Akhtar Usman Poetry - Akhtar Usman Shayari, Urdu Ghazal, Nazam Collection". UrduPoint.
  3. ^ a b "All writings of Akhtar Usman". Rekhta.
  4. ^ "Urdu Books of Akhtar Usman". Rekhta.
  5. ^ "چراغ زار اختر عثمان کا تازہ مجموعۂ غزل" ["Chirag Zaar" is the latest collection of Ghazal by Akhtar Usman]. روزنامہ دنیا.
  6. ^ عباس, توقیر (July 30, 2018). "اختر عثمان کی طویل نظم "تراش"" [Akhtar Usman's Long Poem "Tarash"].
  7. ^ "'تراش' اختر عثمان کی طویل نظم کتابی صورت میں" ['Tarash' Akhtar Usman's long poem in book form]. روزنامہ دنیا.
  8. ^ Mahmood, Hussain; Moinuddin, Dr Ghulam (December 30, 2020). "اختر ؔعثمان کا شعری لحن۔۔۔۔ چراغ زار کے تناظر میں" [Akhtar Osman's lyrical tone. In the context of "Charag Zaar"]. Khayaban - خیابان. 42 (1): 147–155 – via ojs.uop.edu.pk.
  9. ^ "The poetics of Akhtar Usman". www.thenews.com.pk.
  10. ^ "The poetics of Akhtar Usman".
  11. ^ "Akhtar Usman's poetry analyzed". DAWN.COM. August 11, 2003.