Grace Like A Shadow by Islam Samhan - A Personal Message from the Jordanian Poet for Kafez Readers

October 26, 2008

by Suzan Abrams

Caption: Jordanian poet Islam Samhan whose romantic poetry collection Grace Like A Shadow was banned by the Jordanian Government for allegedly insulting Islam, is seen here in deep conversation with the late legendary Palestinian poet, Mahmoud Darwish. Darwish passed away last August from a prolonged illness in a Texas hospital. Samhan has been released from jail where he was detained for over a fortnight, to attend his court case which starts next Thursday.

Photo from Hada Sarhan's personal records, exclusive to Kafez.

I received a note from Islam Samhan early today - Monday, written for Kafez. His boss at the newspaper where he works, Hada Sarhan, has translated the message as Samhan only speaks Arabic. His life is currently in danger as he continues to receive death threats from unknown sources, while awaiting trial next Thursday in Amman. I am publishing the note as it is.

Personal note from Islam Samhan exclusive to Kafez

i am islam sarhan i want to thank you all for supporting me,,my court is on thursday and i need your Prays..am sorry i cant speak english but my boss Mrs hada sarhan is helping translate and write to me in english. i will keep you informed with what will happen.
greeting to all of you
islam samhan
amman jordan


Islam Samhan's banned poetry collection is on its way to me.


Please see earlier entries:
First entry
Second entry
Third entry &
Fourth entry.