Aliyah Batool
Introduction
I’m Aliyah, a 19-year-old student from Skardu, a place where majestic mountains, breathtaking sceneries, and the warmth of its people have shaped my journey. Growing up surrounded by such beauty and inspiration, I discovered a love for storytelling. Writing became my way of capturing expressing emotions and sharing the stories that define us. Being featured in this anthology is a reflection of my passion for words and the lessons I’ve learned along the way, for which I’m beyond grateful!
Works
Screams from the rubble
Doesn’t the cries from Gaza make you fear?
The call from heaven is truly near.
Painting the streets red with blood,
drenching pathways in a scarlet flood.
Doesn’t your heart drown in sorrow?
Isn’t your soul in grief, in endless borrow?
Will you still be quiet?
The children are only longing for a peaceful night.
Do you still wear the title “Human”?
When you remain silent in the face of oppression.
The fear of confession
I love you as if the moon loves the sun
It’s plain to see
But they cannot be together, it seems destiny
For if they meet an eclipse they’ll create
And both will be left in a darkened state
Shrouded Hearts
We all grew up hiding from the darkness, then hiding in it.
Trying to hide from the demons lurking outside to
battling demons inside.
Once, what seemed terrifying now appears strangely beautiful as it
veils all our wounds and scars, hiding us from the rest of the world.
Not letting anyone know whether you’re dancing with joy
or drowning in sorrow. It’s just you, your heart, and all those
unsaid emotions of yours that find release in its enchanting embrace