Conveying Empathy and Compassion in Mahmoud Darwish's Poem "Think of the Others”: A Speech-Act Study

Section: Research Paper
Published
Sep 1, 2025
Pages
128-135

Abstract

Speech acts, a fundamental component of pragmatics, involve specific intentions beyond the literal meaning of words. These acts are associated with the actions conveyed through spoken words, enabling individuals to perform actions through their utterances. The statements are intrinsically linked to the actions they describe. This paper examines speech acts within Mahmoud Darwish's poem "Think of the Others." Utilizing the qualitative description method and employing John Searle's (1979) classification of illocutionary acts, the paper seeks to identify the types and functions of these acts in the poem. These speech acts effectively convey the poet's underlying message through predominant directives supplemented by assertions and emotional expressions. They function as catalysts, prompting the audience to transcend personal preoccupations and consider others necessities and journeys. By emphasizing the interconnected nature of humanity, this study posits that our actions have consequences for those around us. Through an analysis of the poem, a more profound understanding emerges regarding the utilization of speech acts in poetry, elucidating their capacity to evoke empathy and compassion within the audience.

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How to Cite

Basil Mahfoudh ALobaidy, N. (2025). Conveying Empathy and Compassion in Mahmoud Darwish’s Poem "Think of the Others”: A Speech-Act Study. Adab Al-Rafidayn, 55(102), 128–135. https://doi.org/10.33899/radab.2025.157784.2325