The Return of the Dead

Samih Al-Qassem The story-teller spoke of my death: But I was alive, and held my breath; And, while my loved ones began to wail, I ascended from the depth of the vale, Returning to my tearful, mourning land Greeted with a new, shining land. Death surrendered at the gate of the miracle; And my people heard the voice of the oracle Declaring my triumphant revival, And Palestine’s miraculous survival; My loved ones, I’m the sword of vengeance: A wait my return with vigilance. I bring back my people’s glowing ire, Like a phoenix, reborn in flames of fire !

Zajel / An-Najah National University