(2003) - Unfortunately, It Was Paradise - Mahmoud Darwish
Darwish, a displaced Palestinian poet of great insight and wisdom, uses poetry as a means of resistance, particularly in accordance to his roots. The context of his work should be taken into consideration by accounting for the metaphysical, aesthetics, and political struggles he endured during his time. The longing which he felt for his beloved country is something which can be seen throughout this collection of poetry, which Darwish selected himself to be translated from Arabic into English through a team of acquainted translators.
Where should plants sleep after the last breath of air?
We write our names with crimson mist!
We end the hymn with your flesh.
Here we will die. Here, for the final passage.
Here or there, our blood will plant olive trees.