Word Meaning
लिखेंगे
likhenge
Meaning
Will write (third person plural or formal future tense).
Detailed Meaning
This is the third-person future tense form of the verb 'likhna' (to write), used here with plural honorific respect for the beloved ('woh'). In Ghalib's couplet, it conveys the lover's cynical certainty about the cruel or indifferent reply the beloved will inevitably draft. The lover anticipates this response so vividly that he prepares a follow-up letter before the messenger even returns.
Etymology
From Sanskrit 'likhati' (scratches, carves, writes), evolving through Prakrit 'likhai' into Hindustani 'likhna'.
Usage
Frequently used in classical Urdu poetry to depict epistolary dialogue, anticipation, and the beloved's expected written replies.
Examples
What will they write in response to this sorrow?
They will write of love when the season arrives.