“Anthem” is a poem by Ahmad Shamlou, an Iranian poet known for his modernist approach and political themes. The poem is a call to action, urging the people to rise up and fight against tyranny and oppression.
The poem starts with the lines, “In the name of love / In the name of freedom / We must fight against poverty and misery.” These lines set the tone for the rest of the poem, which is a passionate plea for the people to take action and fight for their rights.
The poem uses powerful imagery to convey the message of the importance of fighting for freedom and justice. For example, the line “The chains of slavery must be broken / And the banners of freedom must be raised” uses the metaphor of chains and banners to evoke the idea of breaking free from oppression and standing up for what is right.
Throughout the poem, Shamlou uses repetition to emphasize his message. For example, he repeats the phrase “we must” several times, emphasizing the urgency of taking action. He also repeats the word “freedom” several times, highlighting its importance as a value worth fighting for.
The poem ends with the lines, “Let us join hands / And build a world of love and freedom.” These lines offer a hopeful message of unity and collaboration in the fight for freedom and justice.
Overall, “Anthem” is a powerful and impassioned call to action that urges the people to rise up and fight against tyranny and oppression. The poem uses vivid imagery and repetition to convey its message and inspire its readers to take action.
Anthem by Ahmad Shamlu
Before being turned to ashes
by the wrath of the thunderbolt,
he had forced the steer of the tempest
to kneel before his might.To test
the faith of old
he had worn out his teeth
on the locks of ancient gates.
On the most out-of-the way paths
he struggled,
an unexpected passer-by
whose voice every thicket and bridge
recognized.
