god'swife12 Sep 2002

I think you have alot of important stories to tell. Some of these stanzas are very beautifully executed. I think if you divide these events into separate stories it would have more impact on the reader. It's too much all at once. Also, the title is inappropriate. The terrorist attacks of Sept.11th, 2001 should not be compared with the horrors other people are living. Not because it takes anything away from "9/11", but because it minimizes your own struggle. Your experiences and the experiences of the people you present to me in this poem deserve to stand on their own. I understand your point, the United States of America appears to be an arrogant self-centered nation. We'e making a big deal out of a comparatively small act of violence. But don't you see, you are contributing to the agrandizing of this event simply by putting it in the title of your poem. Our government is using this event to create a sense of nationalism and justification for war. Please do not confuse the people with their goverment. Just as in your country, the people here are nowhere near being the hypocrites their leaders are. This is not your 9/11 this is your Anfal. Explain it to us. Show us. Many of our citizens will listen, and take your words to heart. This title reduces the author from the honorable status of poet to the dishonorable status of slanderer. My wish for you is that your talent will grow, and that through your words and the words of other poets the United States will be forced listen.