Mothers Over Nangarhar: An Exploration of Motherhood's Depth and Complexities

In the heart-wrenching tapestry of war and displacement, the bond between a mother and child emerges as an unbreakable thread, a beacon of hope amidst the chaos. "Mothers Over Nangarhar," winner of the prestigious Kathryn Morton Prize in Poetry, delves deeply into this sacred relationship, unveiling the multifaceted nature of motherhood through a poignant collection of poems.

Through the eyes of Afghan mothers and children displaced by conflict, Meaghan Delahunt's verses paint a vivid portrait of resilience and love. The poems are not mere observations; they are intimate confessions, whispered secrets, and fierce declarations that resonate with the raw emotions of motherhood.

Mothers Over Nangarhar (Kathryn A. Morton Prize in Poetry)

by Pamela Hart

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
Paperback	:	156 pages
Item Weight	:	7.7 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.36 x 9 inches
File size	:	4534 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	94 pages

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The Many Faces of Motherhood

In "Mothers Over Nangarhar," motherhood is not confined to a single archetype. Delahunt explores its myriad dimensions, from the protective instincts of a pregnant mother facing the horrors of war to the desperation of a young girl forced to become a mother too soon.

In "Birthmark," a mother gazes upon her sleeping child, her heart filled with a "love that is a fierce claiming." Yet, this idyllic moment is shadowed by the reality of their displacement, the fear that her child might never know the peace of their homeland.

In contrast, "Girl-Mother" tells the poignant tale of a young girl robbed of her innocence. Delahunt masterfully captures the juxtaposition of a child playing with dolls and the weight of a secret that weighs heavy on her young shoulders.

Echoes of War and Displacement

The backdrop of war and displacement permeates every verse in "Mothers Over Nangarhar." Delahunt does not shy away from the harsh realities faced by these mothers and children, their lives uprooted, their dreams shattered.

In "Leaving Kabul," the poet evokes the agony of forced separation. Mothers bid farewell to their children, knowing that they may never see them again. The poem's haunting refrain, "I will not let go," echoes the unyielding bond between a mother and her child, even in the face of insurmountable odds.

Yet, amidst the pain and the loss, Delahunt also finds moments of resilience and hope. In "Play," children find solace in the simplest of games, their laughter a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can prevail.

A Call to Compassion and Empathy

"Mothers Over Nangarhar" is more than just a collection of poems. It is a powerful statement on the humanitarian crisis faced by countless families around the world. Delahunt's words are a call to compassion, empathy, and action.

By giving voice to the voiceless, the poet reminds us of the shared humanity that binds us all. The mothers and children of Nangarhar are not merely statistics; they are individuals with dreams, fears, and hopes that deserve to be heard.

The Kathryn Morton Prize in Poetry has recognized "Mothers Over Nangarhar" for its exceptional literary merit and its unwavering commitment to social justice. This collection is not only a testament to the resilience of the human spirit but also a reminder of the urgent need for understanding and compassion in our world.

As you delve into the pages of "Mothers Over Nangarhar," may you be moved by the power of motherhood, the horrors of war, and the indomitable spirit of the human soul. May these poems ignite within you a deep sense of empathy and a desire to make a difference.

Mothers Over Nangarhar (Kathryn A. Morton Prize in Poetry)

by Pamela Hart

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
Paperback	:	156 pages
Item Weight	:	7.7 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.36 x 9 inches
File size	:	4534 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	94 pages

FREE