What I love about poetry books is the fact that the reader is given many views and ideas from many people. This book was a perfect way to begin my journey into the Single Story if Middle Eastern women. Something that shattered my single story if the Middle East in general was the energy of the culture and the land, more colorful than I ever imagined.
The culture is so strong. I am positive that most of these poets and artists believe in and celebrate their culture more than I do for my own. Even Naomi Shihab Nye who selected and compiled these works explains that when she would go to girl scouts she would bring "dates, apricots, and almonds"(vii) to share. While some of their beliefs are considered old fashioned and some inhumane (such as forced marriages) there are so many beautiful pieces to the culture and way of life. It is clear that the people of the Middle East appreciate what the have and don't take much for granted. While they do face war and brutality, many of the poets stressed the importance of light and the goodness in the world. The Middle East is rich with history, religion, and culture, something we often forget.
These works are also filled with color. I always imagined a dull landscape of dunes (yet still had the image of oriented rugs in my single story idea). Yet illustrated in both the poems and the painting are colorful. (16) The paintings themselves illustrate the rich, beautiful land and lifestyle, but so does the poems. The imagery is incredible and easily puts the reader there with the poet.
I have gained a new appreciation for the Middle East. The land and their culture had no meaning to me, but I cried and laughed over these artworks. I feel much more connected and have gained a much better appreciation that I wish I had sooner.
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