How to Write a Ghazal
Decide what your radif is going to be., Consider what your qaafiya is going to be., Get writing!
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Decide what your radif is going to be.
Every verse ends with the same word or group of words (radif).
It makes sense to choose one that can be flexible in use and meaning, so you can use it in different ways in each verse. -
Step 2: Consider what your qaafiya is going to be.
The qaafiya is a rhyme that precedes the radif.
Again, pick something with lots of possibilities. , A ghazal consists of a series of couplets (two-line verses), with each line containing the same number of syllables.
Each couplet is a separate, complete mini-poem, so there's no need for any narrative progression, or any real connection between the couplets.
Both lines of the first verse end with the qaafiya and radif.
See down the page for an example ghazal. -
Step 3: Get writing!
Detailed Guide
Every verse ends with the same word or group of words (radif).
It makes sense to choose one that can be flexible in use and meaning, so you can use it in different ways in each verse.
The qaafiya is a rhyme that precedes the radif.
Again, pick something with lots of possibilities. , A ghazal consists of a series of couplets (two-line verses), with each line containing the same number of syllables.
Each couplet is a separate, complete mini-poem, so there's no need for any narrative progression, or any real connection between the couplets.
Both lines of the first verse end with the qaafiya and radif.
See down the page for an example ghazal.
About the Author
Catherine Shaw
Writer and educator with a focus on practical cooking knowledge.
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