Taliban Poem by Nassy Fesharaki

Taliban

Years ago, in Dubai
I met on Al Nihal
An Afghan who sold rugs
And antique of Afghans.

He used his rent-place
As his bed, as his home and his shop.
I went there for doing business.
He told me: “It is safe; as is said! ”

A plane was hijacked, grounded
Russian one,
It sounded strange
Things had changed.

“A woman can carry loads of gold, ”
“Walk at night and be safe.”
He meant and, explained.

Talk was of Taliban on the rise.

Now, here, Canada
There is note:
“No one should go hitch hike
Let alone a woman or a girl on her own
On highway that is not… well-travelled…”

This comment, fact or not
Is a shame.