Black Iris

BLACK IRIS

By Alexander Williams

'I scaled the Dana valley, trekked Fuheis 

Sang in amphitheatres at Um Qais

At sunrise made sweet tea in Wadi Rum

In Jerash roasted in the August sun...'

My two years teaching in Jordan were a genuinely transformative experience. The generous and welcoming people, the awesome natural landscapes, the peerless historical wonders and the endlessly altering weather each made indelible impressions on me that I will always cherish and treasure.

'Black Iris' is a collection of poems inspired by my time in Jordan which I hope succeed in sharing with you some of those impressions and adventures, and most of all, I hope you enjoy them.

Magluba

Feet dimple-dipped in the cool running water

Of the wooded rapid river near Iraq Al Imir

They picnic happily on plastic tables and chairs

 

Flipping the cooking pot over and 

Tapping its base (now its top) till out pours

A feast. Everyone who eats is welcome.

 

Lamb mansaf is the national dish

But magluba also holds an honoured place,

Both meals prepared for family, not guests.

 

Children take first, as tradition demands,

Joyful portions with more than enough left

For the waiting adults to playfully fight over.

 

Cauliflower, potato, pine nuts and rice

Heaped onto chicken, a hearty pile that

Fills your plate and stomach. More than enough.

 

Laughter is the compulsory side dish.

The old feel young. The young feel full. 

The full feel happy.  The happy smile.

To purchase 'Black Iris' click here.

Read a review here.

Sheep Space Video