Fayezah Mohammadi

I am the same girl who,
when she first opened her eyes to this world,
brought new colors to life.
The one who,
with her very first steps,
shook the earth
and proved that
her arrival was not in vain.
The girl who,
with her first words,
lit up the sky
and wrote a story of hope.

And now,
now that time stands still
within the darkness
of these cold prison walls,
I am still that girl;
a girl whose inner flame
refuses to be extinguished,
even by heavy chains.
A girl who,
from the depths of this darkness,
creates light once more.
A girl whose every heartbeat echoes:
"I am still alive,
I am still standing!"

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Editor's Note:

Fayezah Mohammadi’s poem is a stirring testament to the resilience of the human spirit, particularly that of Afghan women who continue to fight against oppression. With vivid imagery and unwavering conviction, she captures the journey of a girl whose very existence is an act of defiance.

From the moment she enters the world, bringing color, movement, and light, to the moment she finds herself confined within prison walls, the poem traces her unyielding strength. Even in captivity, her essence remains unbroken, her flame refuses to be extinguished, and her voice continues to echo through the darkness.

This poem is not just a personal statement but a universal anthem for those who refuse to be silenced. Mohammadi’s words remind us that true strength is not in chains or walls but in the indomitable will of those who dare to stand tall, even in the face of oppression.

About the Poet:
Fayezah Mohammadi is an Afghan writer and poet who explores nostalgia, sorrow, and real-life struggles, inspired by the hardships of life under the Taliban. Writing primarily in Persian, she blends personal expression with subtle activism, shedding light on the struggles of Afghan women. Passionate about telling real-life stories, particularly of imprisoned women, she seeks to share her voice while navigating security risks.