Journal of the stylistic of Persian poem and prose
volume Number 19، number In Volume 8، November 2026 ، issue Number 126

A Syntactic Analysis of Verb Moods and Structures of Restriction and Limitation in the Stories of Mahmoud Dowlatabadi (2011–2021)

Kobra Veisi , Asghar Rezapourian (Author in Charge)

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The science of *Ma‘āni* (semantics/rhetorical syntax) is a branch of rhetoric that examines the alignment of linguistic structure with the exigencies of the context (*muqtadā-ye ḥāl*), as well as the transmission of meanings and secondary rhetorical purposes within the discourse. By skillfully employing the techniques of this discipline, a writer can craft narrative-driven, contemplative prose and enrich the text"s semantic and emotional layers. Mahmoud Dowlatabadi, a prominent figure among the third generation of Iranian fiction writers, holds a distinguished place in contemporary Persian literature; the linguistic and narrative characteristics of his works offer an ideal basis for examining the interplay between syntax and meaning. Study Method: This fundamental research aims to syntactically analyze verb moods and the rhetorical devices of restriction and limitation (*ḥaṣr* and *qaṣr*) in Dowlatabadi’s fiction; the study employs a descriptive-analytical method combined with a statistical approach for data collection and analysis.

METHODOLOGY: The present study, which aims to examine the syntax of verb moods and the structures of restriction and limitation (*hasr* and *qasr*) in the fictional works of Dowlatabadi, is fundamental in nature and employs a descriptive-analytical method combined with a statistical approach for data collection.

FINDINGS: The findings indicate that Dowlatabadi establishes a semantic link between sentence structure and meaning; furthermore, his use of the science of *Ma"ani* (semantics/rhetoric of meaning) transcends mere ornamentation, playing an integral role in narrative structure, characterization, atmosphere creation, and the conveyance of the author"s perspective. He employs techniques such as omission and inclusion, structural brevity and length, sentence connection and disconnection, and other syntactic potentials to foreground meaning and evoke the characters" mental and emotional states.

CONCLUSION: In Dowlatabadi’s works, the study of semantics (*‘ilm-e ma‘āni*) serves not only the rhetoric and aesthetics of the text but also plays a fundamental role in the semantic, psychological, and social layers of the narrative; this is precisely what renders Dowlatabadi’s prose style vibrant, impactful, thought-provoking, and unique.

Keyword
Semantics , contemporary fiction writing , syntactic analysis.