Amazing evening last night organised by the Bosnian Supplementary School Manchester. They invited the writer/poet/actor Mirsad Solakovic to share his new book "The Boy Who Said Nothing."
Mirsads poetry gives the reader an insight into the days of war from the perspective of himself as a 13 year old boy, captured and tortured at the hands of his teacher who once revered him, and the survivors of the war. He meanders through not only the devastation and destruction which was unleashed upon them but also emits hope, resilience and courage of a people who sought no revenge and still fight for peace.
He shared how important it was for people to write and speak about what they endured. "Everyone has a story even if it be a page" he said, but it was vital for him and others to share them. He said that "If we are not writing our own stories someone else will and this could mean authenticity is lost." He reminded us that if we do not reflect on the past we were in danger of losing our history to those who wish to erase, deny, or forget it, or becoming complacent about the here and now.
He said it was vital in the face of growing racism, and anti-muslim rhetoric, that we spoke up and worked even harder as Islam teaches us, to spread love and compassion.
Such a pleasure to meet you Mirsad and I thank you humbly for sharing your journey. You are an inspiration. May Allah preserve you always Ameen.
To purchase the book.
pictures © Aisha Mirza February 2017
No comments:
Post a Comment