As part of the Shanghati Literary Society’s Community Literature Festival 2015, a group of learners of varying age groups were asked to come up with poems. The poets had been told they would have 30 minutes – but the time had to be cut down to 20 minutes. The results were spectacular: here are some of the very best.
•For more information about the Festival, which runs on selected dates until the end of November, go to: www.towerhamletsarts.org.uk/?guide=ArtsInfo&cat=2&cid=56570
Weapon by Inaya, aged 11
Why pick up the weapon, When you can pick up the pen? Why cause destruction, When you can live a life that’s ten out of ten?
If you think you’re so clever, then why do you make wrong choices? You only think of yourself, instead of hearing others’ voices. You pick up the weapon, and pretend you’re so cool, But everyone else knows you’re just a silly fool! When it comes to feeding the poor, you have no money, But when it’s your turn, you have so much to fill your tummy!
I’m sick of people like this, We’ve got to make a change, We’ve got to stand together, And be really brave!
My Brother by Abdullah Bin Moklisur Rahman
My Brother I have a brother He has not been with me from the start He shines brighter, but does not leave me in the dark
My Brother Hard headed but soft hearted His sorrows are of mine And mine are of his
My Brother We may be from to families but feel like one He is one in a million
My Brother may not be my true brother My Brother is my best friend My Brother is my light He is what drives me day and night…
The Moon is… by Ayesha
A silver coin in the inky sky A ghostly galleon drifting majestically through the black velvet sky A glistening pearl lying in the dark ocean bed A white rose resting the stars studded night Glimmering disco ball lighting up the nigh.
Arsenal by Talha R
well we won four nil records go flat up as we lift the F.A. cup
He by Yahya Bin Moklis
He calls me, I Look, he asks me I respond, He tells me I help