Word Meaning
नग़्मा
naghma
Meaning
A melody, song, musical tune, or poetic strain.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'naghma' signifies a melodic song, tune, or harmonious poetic voice. In Ghalib's verse, it denotes the profound poetic utterance and sublime melody of the master poet Bedil, which the musician of the heart prepares to play using the breath's own strings. It reflects the seamless confluence of music, breath, and high poetic thought.
Etymology
Arabic 'naghmah' (melody, tone, tune), borrowed via Persian into Urdu.
Usage
Frequently deployed in the ghazal to evoke musicality, alternating between the ecstatic chant of the nightingale and the mournful strain of a sorrowful heart.
Examples
A melody of grief rises from the broken instrument.
The nightingale sang a sweet tune in the garden.