This is the first collection of the work of poet and writer Kamal Mirawdeli. It represents a powerful example of Kurdish poetry, which remains unfairly under-represented in world literature. This is poignant, engaging and illuminating poetry. Each poem is unique and well-structured, with an astonishing variety of thought-provoking themes, ideas and styles. "Here we have a bright cord of flame that illuminates the history, hopes, suffering and defiance of a nation which may be in chains but will not be defeated. Here, time and time again, we have an apt, vivid, and inventive language which draws us into the surprise of the poem. [Kamal Mirawdeli] belongs not just in the land and language which gave him birth and identity but in every living being and inanimate object that populates the world of his poetry.'' From the Introduction by Aonghas Macneacail