Oppression and Hope: Linguistic Analysis of Daud Kamal's 'A Remote Beginning' in Pakistan's Political Context

Abstract

This study explores the stylistic features of Kamal’s poetry, especially in his poem, A Remote Beginning, in order to determine how these stylistic features, correlate with the socio-political situation in Pakistan during General Zia-ul-Haq rule (1977-1988). This study seeks to answer two key questions: First, how do the stylistic features of the poem capture the essence of the realities in an authoritarian political setting? Second, how does Kamal's poetry being authoritarian in nature at the same time cater to the practices of preserving collective memory of the people of Pakistan? Zia-ul-Haq’s rule was characterized with extreme oppression, censorship and the rigid implementation of conservative beliefs that repressed Pakistani culture and literature severely. This research, through a detailed examination of metaphor, imagery, and rhythm in Kamal’s verse, shows how these technologies of imagination serve to express political conditions as well as the national pain and resistance at that moment of time. The poem suggests that the society was reeling in constant fear and had succumbed to oppression from an authoritative regime. Besides, it underscores Kamal's position as a dissident who employs his poetry as a means of protest. The research examines the political violence of the regime and its repercussions. Using elements of loss, memory, and resilience, Kamal's poetry engages the collective imagination, allowing for remembrance and reflection. This cultivates a national consciousness among Pakistanis that enables them to face their past struggles while working towards a more equitable future. The study contributes to the literary and political discourse of South Asia in the sense that it demonstrates how poetry can serve as a lens to understand and challenge societal structures. This analysis places Kamal’s “A Remote Beginning” within the framework of Zia-ul-Haq’s regime to articulate the central theme regarding the ability of literature to dissent, memorialize, and sustain life under oppression. Daud Kamal's reputed work has transcended that of mere artistic expression. In many ways, his work constitutes an act of resistance against a nation in crisis.

Keywords: Stylistic Analysis, Levels of Stylistics, Discourse Evaluation, Foregrounding