Translated from the Arabic by Ahmed Amor Zaabar
Deep within me, there is, a Presence
that pursues the impossible,
hauls me from the world’s mire
into the wide breathing of dream.
My Bearing inclines toward the heavens;
my heart bows before the Light.
From God
I ask for what might unburden the earth
of its wars’ weight;
from the sky’s blueness,
a sun I have yet to know.
From my death I beg a single chapter:
that chapter in which I loved you.
From my first soul I ask its primal spark
that first glow that was my truth.
From meaning: a tongue not yet born;
from silence: one stripping of memory,
one untying of the soul’s knotted cares,
that I might be saved, twice
About the Author
A Tunisian poet originating from the Kerkennah Islands of Tunisia, Faten Guemri is one of Tunisia’s young contemporary poets. Through her verses, she delves into explorations of the self and the world, with reflections on life and existence. Her first poetry collection, “Aktubu Li Tarani /I write to be seen” is due to be published in March2026. She is currently preparing her second publication, blending narrative and poetic thought. She practices law and resides in Tunis, where she continues to draw inspiration from her surroundings and experiences.
About the Translator
Ahmed Amor Zaabar is a poet, writer, and media specialist. He was the former Chairman of the Cultural Committee of the Arab Cultural Forum in Britain and the former Chairman of the Media Committee of the Arab Club in Britain. He has published three poetry volumes, and is currently working on three additional poetry volumes and translations of three collections into French, English and Spanish.
