Word Meaning
कुएँ
ku'en
Meaning
A well; here metaphorically referencing the dimple in the beloved's chin.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, this refers literally to a well, frequently utilized in the Persian-derived trope of 'chah-e-zaqan' (the well or dimple of the chin). In this couplet, the beloved's chin is imagined as a well into which green hemp (bhang) has fallen, alluding both to the nascent dark down (khatt) of youth and the proverb of a well contaminated with an intoxicant driving everyone mad. It symbolizes an alluring trap of fatal charm.
Etymology
Derived from Sanskrit 'कूप' (kūpa) via Prakrit 'कूव' (kūva) into Old Hindi and Urdu.
Usage
Consistently featured in the ghazal tradition through the trope of 'chāh-e-zaqan', picturing the beloved's chin dimple as a pit where hearts are imprisoned.
Examples
Fallen into the well of her chin, the heart finds no rescue.
As though the water of the entire well had turned to wine.