Agha Shahid Ali was een Amerikaanse dichter van Cachemirische afkomst, wiens werk zich verdiept in thema's als identiteit, ballingschap en het verlies van thuis. Zijn poëzie maakt vaak gebruik van de ghazal-vorm om de complexiteit van culturele botsingen en persoonlijke vervreemding te onderzoeken. Ali's onderscheidende stem en diepgaande thematische verkenningen hebben hem gevestigd als een belangrijke figuur in de hedendaagse Amerikaanse poëzie. Zijn verzen belichamen een melancholische schoonheid en een scherp inzicht in de menselijke ervaring.
This collection celebrates the legacy of Agha Shahid Ali, featuring his passionate title poem and a range of works from playful early pieces to profound themes of mourning and loss. The volume culminates in the evocative ghazals of "Call Me Ishmael Tonight," showcasing the depth of his poetic voice.
Agha Shahid Ali's collection showcases his early poetic talent, highlighting themes of longing and identity. Known for his evocative imagery and emotional depth, Ali's work often reflects his Kashmiri heritage and the complexities of displacement. This collection serves as a significant introduction to his voice, paving the way for his later acclaimed works. As both a poet and editor, Ali contributes to the rich tapestry of contemporary poetry, blending traditional forms with modern sensibilities.
Agha Shahid Ali's collection of American ghazals intertwines personal reflections with tributes to admired poets like W. S. Merwin and James Tate. Through poignant and honest verse, he confronts his own mortality, creating a powerful dialogue between his experiences and the influences of his literary predecessors. The work showcases Ali's unique voice and deep emotional resonance, celebrating both life and the inevitability of loss.
The collection explores the profound impact of personal and cultural loss, focusing on the author's childhood home in Kashmir and the emotional turmoil following his mother's death. Through inventive poetry, it delves into themes of grief, memory, and the struggle to reconcile past and present, while vividly portraying the journey to return her body to their homeland. This poignant work reflects on the intersection of personal tragedy and the broader historical context of Kashmir.