ABSTRACT
The qaṣida is characterized by a system of oppositions and contrasts, to which a dimension of similarity is added by the analogical situations of nasib and madiḥ. Ibn Qutayba's emphasis on the need for observing a balance between the parts of the qaṣida is based on his recognition of their complementary functions and of the decorum necessary to each if it is to achieve its persuasive end. Bashshar's qaṣida represents the prototype of a pattern which is found not only in later Arabic poetry but in Persian as well—a fact which points not only to the influence of Arabic models on Persian poets, but to their perception of the qaṣida's usefulness for a variety of purposes. The qaṣida in question is a panegyric addressed to ʿUqba ibn Salm, governor of Basra under the Caliph al-Manṣur, and a patron to whom Bashshar was closely attached.
