ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the central role of poetry in Iran’s contemporary religious culture and politics. Its immediate focus is the socio-cultural nuances embedded in annual Shiite rites through a close reading of two contemporary poetry presentations that were performed at two significant points in recent Iranian history: the first Iran-US presidential telephone call since the Islamic Revolution (2013) and the national debate surrounding the UNESCO ‘Agenda 2030’ for Sustainable Development (2017). By examining the two poetry performances and their widespread reception, this chapter explores the creative confluence of religion and poetry in current Iranian politics. Understanding the significance of poetry as a culture-making and culture-sustaining medium may further our understanding of religion and politics in Iran today.
