A Comparative Study of Irony in the Thought of Hafez and Richard Rorty

This paper presents a comparative study of the two concepts of Rendi (rascality/witty subversion) and Irony in the poetry of Hafez and the philosophy of Richard Rorty. By examining the cosmology, anthropology, and epistemology of both Hafez and Rorty, the study concludes that, despite fundamental ideological differences and a six-hundred-year gap between them, their proposed concepts of Rendi and Irony are somewhat analogous. These concepts denote a specific worldview and a way of life aimed at liberation from dogmatism and the claim of attaining absolute truth. Furthermore, both share the goal of building a life based on peace, tolerance, forbearance, and an emphasis on the unconditional importance of freedom and the realization of individuality.

Crucially, however, the paper argues that it is possible—following Hafez's example and contrary to Rorty—to avoid dogmatism without denying the very principle of absolute truth and the mystery of existence. Instead of skepticism, one can dwell in wonder (hayrat), acknowledging our inherent inability to fully grasp that ultimate truth.