Maqta'

A maqta' (Arabic: مقطع, Persian: مقطع, Urdu: مقطع) is the final couplet of a ghazal (a lyrical poem) in Urdu, Persian, Arabic, and other related literary traditions. The maqta' serves as the poem's signature, as it is in this couplet that the poet traditionally includes their takhallus, or pen name. The takhallus is usually integrated into the verse in a clever or subtle manner.

The presence of the takhallus is the defining characteristic of the maqta'. Without the poet's name appearing in the final couplet, it cannot be considered a maqta', even if it appears at the end of the ghazal. The maqta' often provides a concluding thought or reflection on the themes explored in the preceding verses of the ghazal. It can offer a sense of closure, summarize the overall sentiment, or even introduce a twist or unexpected perspective.