Description
“Kisses, ghosts, and memories haunt the pages of Badihian's latest book, Ask the Wind. The title suggests there is no answer to war, or if there was, the answer would be fleeting. Part of the allure of Badihian's work is in everyday objects that hold deep meaning. Her verses sing for those tilled under machines of industrial violence but do not dwell there. There is charm and beauty enough for all readers within these poems.”—Youssef Alaoui, Critics of Mystery Marvel
“Persia has long been lauded for its rich history of poems and poets. Yet the offspring of that legacy, the modern Iranian poets, are often not seen for the excellent work which they produce that is watered by those clear water springs. Mahnaz Badihian is one of those poets. Her newest book, Ask the Wind, is a book of depth and breadth which flows from that legacy. Travel with this poet and you will find laughter within these pages along with tears of truth over the hardships we face, along with enduring sighs at the indisputable sadness of our times, and a quiet but determined affirmation of our victories in extending concern for humanity and offerings of love. Mahnaz Badihian celebrates the strength and tenacity of others and of herself. Here there is solace, anger, rebellion, despair, celebration, and resolve. This is a book worth keeping close at hand.”—devorah major, 3rd Poet Laureate of San Francisco
Author Bio
Mahnaz Badihian's artistic expression started at a young age in elementary school by writing poetry and short stories and painting with whatever material was available. Life took her through many different experiences such as Nursing school, Dental school, art school, revolution, immigration, and motherhood, but she always remained a poet and artist. For 15 years now, her life has solely been dedicated to art and literature. She has published many poems and translation books in the Persian language and English. Mahnaz has been exhibiting her art internationally for decades, most recently with a solo exhibition in 2018 in San Francisco, California, at Live Worms Gallery. Her latest collection of poems, Raven of Isfahan, was published in 2019 to critical acclaim. Badihian finished her MFA in Poetry in 2007 from Pacific University in Oregon. Her poems appeared in more than ten international anthologies. In 2020 Mahnaz edited and published 300 pages of COVID poetry and art from around the world in a collection entitled Plague 2020. She is an active member of the Revolutionary Poets Brigade in San Francisco. Member of PEN, acting member of World Festival of Poetry. Her novel Gohar will be published in 2023.
Author City: SAN FRANCISCO, CA USA