Shadab Zeest Hashmi
In a city hillocked and covered
with cherry blossoms
this time of the year
the runner
carrying the message of war
has reached
before
bales of cotton
Caravans bringing sugar and rice
The elders in their white gowns
have been moved
from their perch in the mosque
A cloud of quiet departs
The women are busying themselves
with salves
with feeding the horses that will carry
their men
The next call for prayer
will be made in full armor
Arrows threading the men’s bodies
will be removed during prayer
SHADAB ZEEST HASHMI
Shadab Zeest Hashmi’s poetry has appeared in various publications including Poetry International, Hubbub, New millenium Writings, Nimrod and The Bitter Oleander. Her work has also been published online in The Courtland Review as well as other places. She is the author of the newly released book of poems The Baker of Tarifa.
