Mahdī Akhavān Sālis

Mehdi Akhavan Sales (pen name: “M. Omid”, born March 1, 1929, Mashhad – died August 26, 1990, Tehran) was a prominent Iranian poet, writer, musician, and literary scholar who bridged classical Persian poetry with modernist sensibilities. His works, marked by epic tone, mythological depth, and somber reflection, explored social, historical, and philosophical themes, giving voice to disillusioned and idealistic generations. His most celebrated poetry collections include Winter, The End of Shahnameh, From This Avesta, Another Birth, and In the Small Autumn Yard in Prison. Akhavan Sales also contributed to traditional Iranian music and literary criticism, and his powerful recitations left a lasting impression on audiences.