Alesha Khan
Flavors of Life
Some were pungent, like unsweetened tea,
Held a struggle, a persistent plea
For relief from pain, a longing for sweetness
Forget what? that flavor etched
Others were sweet, like ripe summer fruit,
Held a joy, a commemoration to recall
Every moment savored, every bite a delight
A life that had been full, a heart that had been light
Forget what? that flavor etched
Some were sour, like lemons in the rain,
Held an ultimatum, a test of pain
A flavor that was unique, beyond compare
Forget what? that flavor etched
And then there were those that were savory, like a rich stew
Held a complexity, a depth to pursue
A blend of flavors, a mix of spice and time
A life that had been rich, a story that was divine
Forget what? that flavor etched
Broken Wings
A cracked teacup,
too small for adult grip,
overflowing with unspoken phobias.
Tiny hands reaching,
for a warmth that wasn’t given,
a voice silenced by fear,
a world too big, too loud, too much.
The monster under the bed,
wasn't a monster at all,
but a shadow,
of a huge, ominous thing,
that swallowed laughter whole.
A swingset,
decaying in the fading light,
a metaphor for euphoria,
left to deteriorate, to fall apart.
No safe space, no refuge from the pain
innocence is gone, childhood stolen
a constant reminder of what was,
what should never have been.
Small voice, lost in the echo,
of slammed doors and broken promises,
whispering secrets,
to a teddy bear with one eye missing,
a silent confidant,
in a world that wouldn't listen.
Comparisons slice like a razor's edge
Fragile selves, hearts that pledge
To be enough, to be worthy, to be seen
But the wounds run deep, the scars still keen
A heart,
once open and trusting,
now guarded, walled off,
afraid to feel, afraid to break,
The jagged bits of memories, sharp as glass
Cutting deep, forever to last
Sleep offers no escape,
nightmares dance, replay and haunt
Words from the Author
Broken Wings
“My poem explores the profound impact of childhood trauma on an individual's life. It delves into the emotional scars and vulnerabilities that arise from a broken childhood, devoid of love, care, and support. "Broken Wings" conveys the anguish, isolation, and desperation that often accompany such experiences. By shedding light on the darker aspects of childhood, the poem aims to spark empathy, understanding, and reflection. Ultimately, it serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, while also acknowledging the lasting effects of early trauma on one's emotional and psychological well-being.”
Author’s Biography
“Alesha Khan is a notable literary voice emerging from Shujabad, Pakistan. Her academic background in English Literature has equipped her with a strong foundation in storytelling and linguistic expertise. Through her work, she showcases her ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with readers on multiple levels.”