Two Poems by Laskiaf Amortegui

Death

Death whispers,

death calls,

death loves me and desires me,

But I don't desire it.

Perhaps, once, I desired it,

And perhaps, once, I loved it.

But not today.

Today I want to live, to love, to feel.

I order my body to react.

To defend myself.

I'm simply not ready...

And I never will be.

But today I don't want to leave.

Today, right now, in this moment, I want to live.

And tomorrow I hope to see the sun.

To hear my neighbor's pesky rooster scolding.

I want to lose myself in that gray and blue world of fragments.

Tomorrow I want to breathe.

I want to savor and walk this uncertain path we call life.

Tomorrow I want to feel that path,

which, at times,

seems difficult, but which I don't want to abandon.

□

Tears

Tears of fear knowing I could lose you.

A blurred smile.

Tears of astonishment seeing how death strikes you.

Mourning and sorrow in my soul.

Tears of happiness seeing love work its power.

Heart racing.

Tears of gratitude for all the grays and roses of this existence.

Mind wandering.

Tears upon tears.

Salty tears when I sleep.

There are days when I fly over them.

My face announces them.

Tears that make me reflect today...

Tears that, perhaps, you will never see.

□

- Laskiaf Amortegui

Colombia

Martha Janet Torres Amortegui's biography:

Martha Janet Torres Amortegui: A Resilient Writer

Born in the vibrant eastern plains of Colombia, Martha Janet Torres Amortegui, known by her pseudonym Laskiaf Amortegui, is a talented writer and poet. Despite facing challenges, she has carved a niche for herself in the literary world.

Literary Journey

- *Novel*: Amortegui is the author of the dramatic novel "La Jaula De Las Mariposas," which tells the poignant story of five women and their environment.

- *Anthologies*: She has co-authored several international poetry and narrative anthologies, showcasing her versatility.

- *Awards and Recognition*: Her work has been recognized with awards and prizes in Spain, Mexico, and Argentina, marking her entry into the literary world.

Overcoming Challenges

- *Dyslexia*: Amortegui has faced the challenge of dyslexia, but it has also influenced her writing style and creativity.

- *Mentorship*: Encouragement from her mentor to publish her lyrics online has been instrumental in her growth as a writer.

Achievements

- *Best-Selling Novel*: Her novel has been positioned as one of the best-selling and most downloaded in its genre on (link unavailable)

- *International Recognition*: Amortegui's compositions have earned her awards and recognition for her voice, poetry, and narrative.

Upcoming Works

- *Bilingual Poetry Collection*: Her bilingual collection of poems, "Letras inconexas," will soon be available.

Personal Life

- *Profession*: Amortegui works as an energetic leveller and is a cosmetologist by training.

- *Passion*: Her love for her family and lyrics drives her in life.

Through her determination and passion, Martha Janet Torres Amortegui has established herself as a notable writer and poet, inspiring others with her story.

Three Poems by Tajalla Qureshi

A shattering "Silence"

When silence settles, like a shroud

The shallowest thoughts surface, unbound

Like buried treasure in a dark ocean deep

A heavy weight upon the vulnerable chest

It pierces like poison needles, sharp and cold

Innocence slips away, as painful tears unfold

I cease arguing with life's cruel design

Enduring the unbearable, heart-bleeding in time

Cuts on the heart, like gashes, wide and red

Red blood drips, silence and stillness spread

Lips sealed, as if a dead spirit's kiss

A dreadful lesson in muted, voiceless bliss

Head to toe, bloodshed, frozen in pain

Words encapsulated, like acid rain

Swollen eyes, frozen, unable to see

A winter's night, devoid of warmth, or glee

No courage left, in hands, eyes, or feet

Broken heartbeats, no pulse to repeat

A barren land, once fertile and green

Now lies desolate, shattered, and unseen.

□

Shadow of Sorrows

The lonely shadow aside from the worldly poles

Wrenching like an unhidden find to hold

And the horrible ink of dreadful poison swiftly mold

Eyes were injurious red like a bleeding bed

Thoughts of frightful threads wrap

and rashly roll the clutching traps

Shadow envelopes like a black door

Tears were tip and tapped one after more

Shadow of shades deeply shallows

Only the gist of suffering and melting melodies

Are fluttering over the sleuth of emotion

God knows the happening in cores of motion

Sometimes, a burial bleed on the surface

Lips bewail like a snubbing scroll

And silence echoes in the cavernous hell

All Alone in the stiff stage of sicks to bell.

□

Flowers and Grave

Eyes are closed but souls are not yet

A wrap of white envelopes glow

Holding the four sides with a heavy toe

Darkness unbinds the weeping flow

A bed of dazzling flowers welcomes the white

Angels of love enchantingly bow

Birds twittering in the garden of glory

Daisy Dahlia and Camelia murmur to grow

The castle of fragrance invites the blossom

Fairies decorate the Garden of Grace

A white dove holding the innocent phrase

and the garden glitters as the beats become bitter

Tulip tweets and the lavender bushes

White dove with closed eyes flourishes flawlessly

Melodies of love welcome the innocent

Hibiscus hoovers and azalea utters a holy blow

White covers the courageous color

Asking Petunia now about the awful overs

Garden of Eden embraces integrity and futurity

The ritual ends with happiness and a glow.

□

Tajalla Qureshi, Beauty of Qureshi 's Clan. A romanticist who illustrates the artistic and enthusiastic style of writing. A Passionate Author and an emblem of embers from Pakistan. She 

has been blessed exquisitely with a divine power of divulging thoughts on a paper of canvas. She celebrated as an international interviewer, columnist, and editor, her voice resonates far and wide, captivating audiences around the globe. Her unique perspective, lyrical style, and profound insights have cemented her place as a leading figure in contemporary literature. She believes that purity, authenticity, and transparency are the monuments of a beautiful pure soul. She reckons that passion and pleasure power and purify the spirit. Her aim is to blow out the lustrous love with the nature through her twinkling vibes. She incredibly weaves, the dynamic aspects of feminine, their chastity, transparency, accuracy, magnificence, innocence in her writings. She admires; Greeks, Classics, Romantics, and Modern Poets in contemporary times. More particularly, she concocts a door to ancient writings, admirations, and engaging inspirations through her poeticality and musicality. She creates bridge between Classics, Romantics, Moderns, and Contemporary through her Phantasmagoric ability to read and write.

Two Poems by Orbindu Ganga

THE INVISIBLE TITTLE

Many anticipated the tittle

Exist for the cliche title,

Never did they know that

The hanging garden of dot

Had a veil, ne'er seen by any,

The invisible layer was carved

By the wise, adding the tittle

Perpendicular to the pineal,

With years of conditioning

Became vestigial, leaving

The bridge broken, the traces

Survived for the silhouette to read

The silence, the invisible smiles…!

□

THE WISE

Drowned in the instant

Celebration of self there

Lived a few who ne'er

Let their words speak,

Remained silent, breathing

An aura, maneuvering to the

Desolated, spoke in the

Language of silence, mended

The wall with the gaps

Enlarged, leaving them to

The children play, the grass

Carved their sharpness, the

Dust welcomed the foliage,

The flowers loved becoming

The feuillemorte, they lived in

Hut close to the river.

□

Biography:

Orbindu Ganga is an explorer, soaring with the river, listening to her flow, susurrant to the silence,

observing the unknown, and being aware of the known. For him, words have their expressions, trying to carve the silence to be whispered, but words have their restraint; he absorbs the vibes as he breathes. His ink has myriad layers, still striving to explore, never quenched by today, to see tomorrow as the most exquisite inception.

SILENT STORIES, A POEM BY ANGELA KOSTA

Silent stories, thunderous,

in profaned psalms encircled,

scourged on the crucifix of the world

where the soul screams and dances the ballad of filth,

without halting the steps of greed that punishes us.

The Mothers,

with their sap,

the plant of life,

are forgetting to nourish,

for their breasts have become dry

in a land now barren.

The musicians

no longer play the piano,

no longer compose new modern hymns of peace...

Today's quislings,

with lightning rockets,

on the walls of the damned sky,

scribble clownish works,

while with disdain, they mock

the backdrop of kneeling races,

with broken ribs

in ancient historical collections.

They no longer have marrow

beyond seedless plasma,

or mouths without teeth,

shattered by the bite of misery.

With thirst

in the veins of the universe,

they swallow blood

under the barbaric blade,

hungry, they gulp down ferocity.

Humanity,

from the same wretched fate,

has been abandoned,

for in silence,

it can recount

the hypocrisy of the deceitful world.

©️ ANGELA KOSTA

ALBANIA & ITALY

Three Poems by Farzaneh Dorri

Forgotten Woman  

I hid behind the whispers

of dried dead leaves

on the sidewalk

to avoid an involuntary dose of

noxious news.

It was where

I saw you again

walking silently

on the edge of

my words

taking your time

to dot all my sentences

and cross whole my heart.

I hid behind the thick walls of your ego,

where the moonlight barely touched the trees

and I forgot the reason I left myself.

I stayed hidden behind the thick walls

that you built in my world

until "I" wasn't "Me" anymore.

□

Words and Author

Some words wake you up

in the middle of the night

to tell you, their story.

Some words eat breakfast with you

and follow you all the way down the stairs

but they never leave the house.

Some words sing for you

but they hesitate to cross the road with you

some words get on the subway with you

and tell you funny jokes you always forget

Some words stop you to ask the address

to the next chapter

some words are always angry

why you keep them between the lines.

Some words are shy

they never come to your mind

some words selflessly let you pack them

in a poem to a friend.

Some words are mysterious

they never show up in your stories

but you hear their footfall

in each chamber of your reader's heart.

Some words are easygoing

they don't mind if you selfishly overuse them

some words are ruthlessly difficult

you should only fall in love with them

so, you can understand them.

□

To Say, or Not to Say

To say, or not to say; that is the question:

whether tis nobler in the life to reveal

the tricks and follies of the masters of the secrets

and to end the bliss, perchance to die;

or to take refuge in the silence of conventions

and by concealing accept them? To lie: to destroy...!

□

The Life and Work of Farzaneh Dorri:-

Farzaneh Dorri is a multifaceted individual with a rich background, born in Iran and currently residing in Copenhagen. With over 17 years of experience as an employment advisor and case manager in the municipalities of Vestegn county, she has developed a deep understanding of social dynamics and community needs.

Literary Pursuits

Dorri is also a poet with a global presence, having featured in various international literary magazines. Her work has been showcased in:

- Italian literary journals: Highlighting her reach and recognition in European literary circles.

- American poetry magazines: Demonstrating her ability to connect with diverse audiences.

- Albanian and Arabic publications: Further emphasizing her international appeal and the universality of her poetry.

Artistic Philosophy

Dorri views poetry as a fine art and a creative process that contributes to the community of humanity. She believes in the power of poetry to:

- Foster connection: Among people from different backgrounds and cultures.

- Promote understanding: By sharing experiences and perspectives.

- Inspire empathy: Through the expression of human emotions and struggles.

Translation Work

In addition to her original poetry, Dorri is also a skilled translator. She translates poetry from various languages into:

- Persian: Allowing her Iranian roots to influence her work while sharing global perspectives with Persian-speaking audiences.

- Danish: Enabling her adopted community to appreciate the richness of international poetry.

Through her work, Farzaneh Dorri embodies the spirit of creativity, community engagement, and cultural exchange.

Two Poems by Saras Darbari

Possessiveness 

As I walk my way 

Amidst rocks 

lying haphazardly by the sea

I observe the waves

lashing and crushing them

Incessantly ...

But the rocks are still

Despite their bruises and trauma

Withstanding the fury 

Or is it  love …?

The waters enter the crevices

Shredding them to pieces, 

Displacing shells and conches, Memories of days bygone…

The waves keep coming back to embrace them, 

Lash against them, 

Kiss them, 

Torment them 

and eventually 

Break and grind them 

to sand ...!

□

My Lord...

In anguish or deep pain 

I turn to you for 

Solace-

Peace –

And the healing touch…

And

As I surrender 

Solace empowers me 

The pain vanishes 

And peace prevails.

O Lord...!  

“Your Countenance”

And 

“My faith”

Does it all.

□

- Saras Darbari 

Toronto, Canada 

sarasdarbari@gmail.com

Biography-

Saras Darbari is a multifaceted writer, known for her versatility in various literary genres. Born on September 9, 1958, she has carved a niche for herself in the world of literature.

Educational Background

Darbari holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Mumbai University, which has provided a solid foundation for her literary pursuits.

Literary Contributions

Darbari's writing spans multiple genres, including:

- Poetry: She has explored various forms, such as dohas, haikus, haiga, mahiya, and geet.

- Fiction: Her short stories and novels showcase her narrative skills.

- Non-fiction: Darbari has written articles, reviews, and memoirs that demonstrate her thought-provoking insights.

Notable Works

Some of her notable contributions include:

- Collaborative Projects:

    - "Bloggers Ke Adhure Sapnon Ki Kasak" (The Longing of Bloggers' Unfulfilled Dreams)

    - "Nari Vimarsh Ke Arth" (The Meaning of Feminist Discourse)

    - "Mahila Sahityakaroon Ki Samasya" (Problems of Women Writers)

    - "Nahin, Ab Aur Nahin" (No, Not Now) (Stories on Communal Riots)

- Published Books: 12 collaborative poetry collections and 6 short story anthologies

Solo Works

Darbari's solo works include:

- Poetry Collection: "Mere Hissse Ki Dhoop" (My Share of Sunshine)

- *Short Story Collection: "Jyon Naavak Ke Teer" (Like the Arrows of Sailor)

Media and Honors

Darbari's work has been recognized through various platforms:

- Radio and TV: She hosted "Hindi Yuvavani" on All India Radio, Mumbai, and "Hindi Yuvadarshan" on Mumbai Doordharshan.

- Film Division of India: Darbari is an approved voice for their panels.

- Award: She received the prestigious "Radha Avadhesh Smriti Pandulipi Samman" (Radha Avadhesh Memorial Manuscript Award) for "Mere Hissse Ki Dhoop."

Three Eras of Transformation in Bengali literature, anArticle by Shakil Kalam

Introduction:

Since the emergence of the Bengali language, literature has predominantly been expressed through poetry. Scholars note that until the 18th century, Bengali prose was largely confined to letters and official documents. However, the early 19th century marked a significant shift with the rise of prose literature, particularly after the establishment of Fort William College in Kolkata. Poetry remains the foundational form of Bengali literature, having undergone numerous transformations over time. Today, three major literary trends dominate Bengali literature, alongside a relatively weaker spiritualist movement. Based on these evolving phases, poets are often categorized into different schools—some identify as modern or postmodern, while others align with surrealism or spiritualism. 

Modern Poetry:

Modern poets highlight various aspects of daily life through distinctive wordplay and unconventional structures. Their works often reflect contemporary events, societal demands, and the spirit of the times, resonating deeply with human consciousness. Rejecting traditional poetic forms, modernist poets favor free verse, experimenting with style, abstraction, and vivid imagery. They explore themes such as reality versus fiction, social decay, detachment from life, and the degradation of values. Additionally, modern poetry frequently incorporates allusions to mythology, history, and cultural works, enriching its depth and meaning. 

Postmodern Poetry:

Postmodern poetry emerged in the mid-twentieth century as a radical departure from conventional forms. Characterized by playfulness, fragmentation, and a rejection of unified narratives, it challenges the notion of a single, coherent reality. This style often mirrors the social chaos following wars, revolutions, and political movements, capturing the revolutionary fervor of those seeking societal change. The youth, in particular, play a crucial role in dismantling old structures and advocating for new ones. Postmodern poetry embraces contemporary consciousness, raw emotion, vivid imagery, personal perspectives, and experimental forms—including graffiti, visual art, and unconventional metaphors—to reflect the fragmented nature of modern existence. 

Surrealism:

Surrealism is a form of artistic expression that diverges from reality, bearing no resemblance to authentic, rational experience. It is rooted in irrational thought, bizarre narratives, and subconscious impulses—elements that exist beyond conventional logic and reality. Surrealist poets draw inspiration from the psychological theories of Sigmund Freud, particularly his exploration of the subconscious mind. 
Freud’s assertion that "Thoughts originate more from the subconscious than the conscious mind" heavily influences surrealist ideology. These poets believe that human desires, fears, and unresolved thoughts often manifest in the subconscious, shaping creativity when the conscious mind is relaxed. Surrealism seeks to bridge the gap between conscious and subconscious thought, using symbolic imagery to dissolve the boundaries between reality and the inner psyche. Its ultimate goal is to transcend the limitations of rational thought, merging the physical and mental realms into a unified artistic expression. 

Spirituality:

Spirituality represents the depth and evolution of religious consciousness or faith emerging from the soul. It encompasses belief in a divine entity, religious principles, or metaphysical existence, often without tangible evidence. These convictions are frequently reinforced through personal experience, metaphor, or tradition, guiding followers toward spiritual fulfillment. In Bengali literature as well as in global literary and cultural traditions spiritual themes have historically permeated poetry, folklore, and prose. However, in contemporary works, this influence has significantly diminished, with fewer modern rhymes, stories, and articles reflecting deep spiritual or religious undertones. 

Conclusion:

Countless poets, writers, and essayists worldwide claim their work has reached the postmodern stage. Many argue that we must abandon old ideas and move forward—especially in an era defined by scientific progress and the rapid evolution of social media. Stagnation is not an option; we must advance. But the crucial question remains: In which direction? There is no clear answer. We are but a few individuals, perhaps naive, who feel compelled to challenge these issues. Yet, driven by conscience, we dare to ask: Do those who proudly call themselves postmodern creators truly consider how deeply their works engage with urgent global concerns? Issues like peace, humanity, human rights, gender inequality, unjust wars, oppression, exploitation, wealth disparity, the proliferation of deadly weapons, combating corruption, financial inequality between elites and marginalized groups, rape, the rule of law, good governance, democratic deficits, the lack of democratic culture, rational distribution of national wealth, fundamentalism, state control under religious pretexts, the marginalization of minorities, climate change, destruction of biodiversity, environmental degradation—are these meaningfully reflected in their writings? Are these issues irrelevant, or are they being ignored? Isn’t it time for poets and writers worldwide to confront these questions through their work? The answer is clear: Yes. The time has come for writers to engage with these pressing issues. 
- Shakil Kalam 
Bangladesh 

THE PRESENCE OF CONTEMPORARY ITALIAN AND INTERNATIONAL LITERATURE IN THE LITERARY AND CULTURAL NEWSPAPER “NACIONAL”

BY ANGELA KOSTA - ALBANIA & ITALY

On May 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM, the publishing house “Nacional” organized a conference in Tirana titled:

THE PRESENCE OF CONTEMPORARY ITALIAN AND INTERNATIONAL LITERATURE IN THE LITERARY AND CULTURAL NEWSPAPER “NACIONAL” FROM ALBANIA

The event was held in the conference hall of the Oxford Hotel, where the publishing house “Nacional” had the pleasure of hosting and presenting a special cultural and intellectual gathering in the heart of Tirana from Albania.

The conference aimed to shed light on the influence, contributions, and resonance of contemporary Italian and international literature within one of the most significant platforms for Albanian culture and letters, the literary and cultural newspaper “Nacional.”

Following a welcome address by the director, Dr. Mujo Buçpapaj, the floor was taken by Dr. Regina Resta, President of the VerbumlandiArt APS Association, recognized by the Senate of the Italian Republic. She expressed deep gratitude for this cultural exchange event between the two countries. Dr. Resta elaborated on and emphasized the significant contribution of the newspaper “Nacional” and Dr. Mujo Buçpapaj himself in promoting cultural values not only of Italian authors and artists but also from around the world. She also promised to return to our beautiful country for further cultural exchange activities.

Subsequently, the Vice President of the Association, Goffredo Palmerini, expressed his appreciation and pleasure at being present at this event. He recounted that around the 1980s, when he was Deputy Mayor of the Municipality in L'Aquila, he had the honor of becoming acquainted with the work of our distinguished writer Ismail Kadare: “The General of the Dead Army,” which was being filmed with well-known Italian actors, including Mastroianni, in this wonderful city.

Dr. Klara Kodra then spoke, sharing about her Italian mother's origin and the close artistic and literary relations with our neighboring country. She also highlighted the extensive activity of the newspaper “Nacional” and its long-standing contribution to disseminating the work of many Italian and foreign authors.

After the exchange of Certificates of Appreciation from both sides, other scholars, writers, and authors also took the floor. The event concluded with coordinator Angela Kosta, who expressed gratitude to the honored guests and all attendees in the hall.

Honored guests included:

1. Regina Resta – President of the VerbumlandiArt APS Association, recognized by the Senate of the Italian Republic

2. Dr. Mirella Cristina – Lawyer, Member of Parliament, Justice Commission

3. Goffredo Palmerini – Journalist

4. Maria Pia Turiello – Forensic Criminologist, Chair of the Scientific Committee

5. Mirjana Dobrilla – Writer, Translator

This event underscored the vital role of “Nacional” as a bridge between Albanian and international literary cultures, fostering dialogue and mutual appreciation among diverse literary traditions.

BY ANGELA KOSTA 

Discussing the connections and the construction of cultural bridges with Italy and countries worldwide, I believe and am convinced that even 24 continuous hours wouldn't suffice.

I cannot fail to mention and recall the time of the regime when Albania was somewhat in the shadows. We had many prominent figures or distinguished writers who fought with their pens to become what they are today—icons in world literature; previously unappreciated due to the pronounced lack of freedom to write and to have the privilege of the word or free verse. They were counted on fingers because the harsh repression buried them alive, and these are facts, not legends.

This is why all of us do not remain silent in the face of mediocrity or those who try to distort our beautiful Albanian language and its origins. It must remain pure because our linguists, ancestors, and Renaissance figures fought for it to stay that way.

The newspaper Gazeta Nacional, professionally led by Dr. Mujë Buçpapaj (I believe there's no need to elaborate on his figure, as he is already internationally recognized), has for years promoted and continues to promote many authors, researchers, historians, artists, etc., not only from the Albanian territories and the Balkans but has also excellently presented our Italian neighbors and those from many other countries across all continents, without political, religious, racial, traditional, or cultural distinctions.

This reflects what the late Pope Francis left us as a legacy: "We need to build bridges, not walls," and the renowned media outlet Nacional has tirelessly contributed, facing no difficulty—be it economic or transitional—in constructing the scaling of these bridges. We all know that the world is going through significant difficulties, not only socially but also political contradictions. Nevertheless, in Gazeta Nacional, authors have come with the pen of peace because that is what we all desire.

In Gazeta Nacional, I have personally had the honor of having many editorials approved and published, which I have interviewed, starting from Iraq, Israel, Pakistan, Iran, India (today, unfortunately, in conflict), but all with the dream of achieving global peace. All these writers survive by writing and promoting because they know that it is perhaps the only way or alternative to give and spread the right word toward fraternal unity. This is why we are here today because the pen is the powerful weapon toward this desired peace—a disarmed and disarming peace (a message full of meaning and value from the newly elected, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV).

For some time now, I have had the honor of collaborating with the daily Italian newspaper Calabria Live, directed by RAI journalist Dr. Santo Strati. This publication features numerous articles not only about the Arbëresh community but also about many prominent figures in art, literature, music, and our Albanian history. Similarly, I contribute to the monthly magazine Saturno Magazine, led by the well-known journalist and writer Francesca Gallello, and to the platform Alessandria Today, under the direction of Dr. Pier Carlo Lava.

As the editor of my three physical magazines - two in English and especially the Albanian-Italian magazine MIRIADE and above all as a female translator and promoter, I have strived to shed light on the veiled shadows of voiceless women who still live under the torment of male egoism.

Gazeta Nacional has provided extensive space to these women, ensuring that their voices become not only echoes but also hymns advocating for civilization and the pursuit of gender equality. Dr. Mujë Buçpapaj himself has personally translated the poems of many female poets from Lebanon, Pakistan, India, and beyond, without prejudice. Today, women hold high state positions-such as Giorgia Meloni, the Prime Minister of Italy-and many other parliamentary roles worldwide. Women today are astronauts, scientists, chief engineers, architects, heads of institutions, and more- professions led at the same level as men. Gazeta Nacional has published works from many distinguished women with unique talents.

Let this event remain long in memory—a bridge in the heart of the Balkans and Europe, a link of continuity not only with Italy but also with other foreign countries.

Thank you very much to all!

(May 14, 2025 - Tirana from Albania)

Two Poems by Kujtim Hajdari

 I SAW A WOMAN

I saw a nervous woman one morning,

Who rushed to leave her home,  

Her cold, misty eyes cried, 

They were seeking only to escape.

Her beauty shone bright,  

Even though she was drowned in tears,  

The sun's rays began to wash her,  

And gave her a full smile.

I don’t know what happened in that house,  

In those walls, in those rooms,  

But I see that the door, with disgust,  

Shudders, and the pain still trembles.

I don’t know what kind of monster is inside,  

That he makes this divine being cry,  

But I only feel that even my heart,  

Can’t hold back its beats.

□

THE INTERNED

He knows this land palm by palm,  

Here he buried his beautiful youth,  

Here he also ate the mud with his teeth,  

Here, the memories quietly mourn in grief.

The stick of old age knocks,  

As if it seeks to awaken something,  

Yet the long time of youth’s suffering,  

Has neither softened nor extinguished.

The heart burns and cries with a groan,  

The eye drips blood and pain,  

He was a twenty-five-year-old lad,  

When they imprisoned him in this place.

As if from a cold, dark winter,  

The dreams withered like unbloomed flowers,  

For a bit of sun, for a little freedom,  

This mud remains as a testimony.

Every time he remembers, it hurts more,  

How much suffering he had, how much humiliation...  

Here he was trampled underfoot,  

Like many others in internment.

The stick of old age knocks,  

And though decades have passed,  

It still comes to weep for the years of youth,  

So deeply felt, so painfully the wound aches.

Some soul-flowers above the grave,  

Forever bring to the dead youth,  

My youth, a slain youth...!  

And hot tears that drip with venom.

□

- Kujtim Hajdari

Biography:

Kujtim Hajdari is a multifaceted literary figure - a writer, poet, editor, literary critic, translator, publisher, and promoter. His notable achievements include:

Literary Achievements

- *Poetry Volume*: His poetry volume "The Waves of Life" has been selected for the Best Book of 2025 competition in Hollywood, scheduled for October 2025.

- *Publications*: Hajdari has authored 18 volumes of poetry and translated six volumes by other authors into English.

- *Anthologies and Magazines*: His work has been featured in 142 national and international anthologies and magazines.

Awards and Recognition

- *International Impact Book Awards*: He won "The International Impact Book Awards" in the USA in August 2025.

- *Certificates and Diplomas*: Hajdari has received numerous certificates and diplomas from various web groups and associations.

Global Reach

- *Poetry Reception*: His poetry has garnered a significant following worldwide, with thousands of admirers and praise from renowned poets and literary critics.

- *Global Publications*: His poems have been published in numerous countries, including Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Italy, the USA, Romania, Morocco, Egypt, Denmark, Algeria, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Turkey, Spain, Germany, Tajikistan, Korea, and China.

Hajdari's work is characterized by its global appeal, linguistic versatility (writing in Albanian, Italian, and English), and recognition through various awards and publications.