Word Meaning
परेशान
pareshān
Meaning
Scattered, disheveled, dispersed; troubled, anxious, or perplexed.
Detailed Meaning
In Persian and Urdu poetry, 'pareshān' primarily means physically scattered or dispersed, and figuratively means mentally distressed or bewildered. In this couplet, it describes the beloved's disheveled tresses ('zulf') as an unkempt, scattered script of longing. The poet links this scattering with the comb and pen that seek to bring order to chaotic desire.
Etymology
Persian 'parīshān' (پریشان), from the prefix 'pari-' (around, dispersed) and the verb stem of 'pashīdan'/'afshāndan' (to scatter, disperse).
Usage
Ghazal poets frequently play on the double meaning of 'pareshān' to connect the physical disarray of the beloved's hair with the emotional turmoil of the lover.
Examples
pareshān zulf (disheveled locks of hair)
dil-e-pareshān (a restless and troubled heart)