BIO
Dr. Khader Moh. Abu Jahjouh is a poet from Gaza, lives in the territory of the Palestinian Authority, his poems appear broadly online. He has published seven books of poetry and two books of literary criticism.
Nightingale of My Heart
Rain, drop by drop
is drawing a picture of hope
above the dilapidated roof of my house.
The bird of wet remorse trembles at my window,
and asks me to open my warm heart to survive.
It asks me to let go of my sorrow.
*
O beloved Nightingale
Be careful, the raven is nearby,
behind you.
Move slowly.
It hides the green nut and missiles
in the blades of his wings.
It hides hatred, betrayal, and death,
somewhere in depth.
*
O sad Nightingale!
I am like you in this black space.
We both cry and feel pain because our nests have been destroyed.
I am like you, despite the drops of hope, my heart hurts.
Can you open your heart to me?
I’m among the red hazel shells.
Despite my strength, I fear loss and alienation
Despite my resolve, I fear the fall.
As if I climb the edge of a mountain.
As if I dive in the depth of the ocean.
Please take me on your wings.
Let’s go deep into the forest, holding each other.
Let’s hug the branches together and flutter.
We have shed enough tears as the river’s streams.
I ask you to inhale the fragrance of jasmine in tranquility.
Even nostalgia should not make you groan.
I appeal to you from my heart, do not despair!
Do not breathe the dust of sufferings.
Let’s open our hearts to happiness until the spring blooms.
Sorrow and tears will not bring us the courage to continue.
So let us resist the wind and the end.
*****
