Semiotics of Semantic Fields and Their Signs in the Poetry of Shakir Al-Aashoor

Semiotic semantics is considered a critical approach that focuses on analyzing linguistic and cultural signs within a literary text, seeking to study the interaction between signifiers (words, symbols) and their meanings (meanings, implications) to uncover hidden layers of meaning. In this research, this methodology is applied to study the poetry of Shakir Al-Nashoor, one of the most influential figures in modern Iraqi poetry, which is characterized by rich symbolism and semantic complexity, as well as his unique ability to merge individual and collective concerns, making his texts rich with multiple levels of interpretation. Al-Nashoor’s poems provide fertile ground for exploring mechanisms of meaning generation through linguistic deviations, poetic imagery, and culturally significant symbols that carry deep connotations. Due to his reliance on complex narrative and poetic techniques, his poetry becomes an ideal model for applying a semiotic perspective, revealing how language is used to produce new meanings that reflect the poet's philosophical, social, and humanistic aspirations.
The research adopted the analytical-descriptive method to study the semantic fields (natural, emotional, social/political, religious/spiritual) and signs (symbols, metaphors, myths) in Al-Nashoor's poetry, aiming to uncover the mechanisms that generate meaning and understand the poet's aesthetic and intellectual vision. The importance of the study lies in addressing the gap in research applying semiotics to modern Arabic poetry and highlighting the role of signs in shaping the unique identity of a poetic text. Among the key findings are: Al-Nashoor’s use of the natural field (such as the sea, night) to reflect the self's struggle between strength and weakness, transforming emotions (such as sadness, longing) into symbols that embody the existential contradictions of humanity, employing socio-political symbols (such as "soldiers," "occupied homeland") to critique authority, and integrating religious symbols (such as forgiveness, martyrdom) with modern deviations to create a discourse that balances rebellion and spirituality.