The poetics of news in the Diwani letters in the fourth century AH: Al-Sabi’s letters as a model

Abstract

The letters of Abu ishaq Al-Sapi represent an exemplary model of Arabic prose in the 4^th century AH where he succwssfully transformed historical and administrative reports into literary texts characterized by poeticism and eloquence. AL –Sabi employed diverse stylistic techniques such as narrative storytelling, linguistic deviations infusing his texts with an aesthetic and rhythmic quality akin to poetry. He also drew upon Arabic-Islamic heritage-including the Quran, proverbs, and poetry- to reinforce the political discourses legitimacy and psychological impact. His letters skillfully utilized rhetorical devices and repetition, enhancing persuasion and emotional engagement, particularly amonq rulers and ministers. Thus, his correspondence transcended mere informational function to become a literary art that combined entertainment and persuasion, establishinq a model for studying the rhetoric of classical Arabic prose and its influence on shaping political and literary discourse.