Why were sound and rhythm especially important in early Arabic poetry?

In early Arabic poetry, sound and rhythm were essential because the tradition was primarily oral rather than written. Because these poems were not initially recorded in text, they relied on memorization and public performance to survive and be passed down from one generation to the next.12

The use of highly elaborate metrical schemes and strict rhyming patterns served as a vital mnemonic device, allowing rāwīs (reciters) to accurately learn and preserve the works of master poets. These rhythmic structures, which were later analyzed and codified into 16 distinct metres, provided a consistent framework that supported the oral transmission of the poems. Furthermore, the performative nature of the poetry—often used to praise tribes, commemorate heroes, or influence public opinion—meant that the auditory impact of the verses was crucial for their effectiveness as a social and political tool.21