Poets/Country

Countryof Authors

1 Australia

2 Bangladesh

3 Botswana

4 Brazil

5 Canada

6 Chile

7 China

8 Croatia

9 Egypt

10 France

11 Germany

12 Ghana

13 Greece

14 Hong Kong

15 India

16 Indonesia

17 Iran

18 Iraq

19 Ireland

20 Israel

21 Italy

22 Kenya

23 Morocco

24 New Zealand

25 Nepal

26 Nigeria

27 Oman

28 Pakistan

29 Philippines

30 Russia

31 Saudi Arabia

32 Serbia

33 Somalia

34 South Africa

35 Sri Lanka

36 Sweden

37 Switzerland

38 Thailand

39 Tunisia

40 UAE

41 Uganda

42 UK

43 USA,

44 Zimbabwe

Authors’ biographies

Sayeed Abubakar, Bangladesh

— Born in 1972, I live in Jessore. I have a BA Honours in English and MA in English, and I’m working as Assistant Professor in English at Sirajganj Government College, Sirajganj (Bangladesh). I have won many Literary Awards and have published 12 books: two of them of Prose, ten of Poetry [the latest being ‘Tumi Balo Tumi Bristi Valobaso’ (You Say You Love Rain), and ‘Shrestha Kabita’ (Selected Poems), both in 2015].

~*~

Alexandro Acevedo Johns, Chile

— My name is Alexandro Acevedo Johns, but I sign my writing with my maternal surname (Johns). I am Chilean, born on November 2, 1947. I’m a lawyer and live in Santiago, the capital of Chile, with my wife Marcela. In my youth I was devoted to poetry, as many of my generation. Now, since I retired from the legal profession, I’ve regained my freedom to write. It is said that writing is a very demanding activity and endanger the spirit if you’re not an optimist. But, after the years, I feel that writing helps me to stay alive and connected emotionally with the world we live in.

~*~

Saadat Tahir Ali, Pakistan (currently in Saudi Arabia)

— I was born (January 1965) and bred in Pakistan. A medical doctor by profession, with postgraduate qualifications in Radiology, I’m currently living in Qaseem, Saudi Arabia. My hobbies include indoor plants, interiors & woodwork and making friends. Over the years, I have traveled to many countries and as a reasonably experienced traveler, I am a senior reviewer on travel and foodie sites. I like nature landscapes architecture and history. I am averse to concrete jungles. I am a diehard audiophile. I consider myself a wide eyed student, ready to listen, learn and improve. I loved poetry when I was at school, started writing decades back while at cadet high continued through to King Edward Medical College. Freedom from bondage in all forms and colours, love and universal brotherhood are my cherished values. I am an incorrigible romanticist and love music. I write my mind. I’m not an expert poet just someone who likes to read and write..

~*~

Paul Amrod, USA (living in Germany)

— I am American married to a wonderful German lady and live in Constance, Germany. As a symphonic composer I’ve successfully integrated my passionate interest in many popular music styles with a rigorous classical training. Born in Chatauegay, New York in 1951, I began my musical career as a rock-and-roll piano player. After earning a Master’s Degree in composition from Juilliard, I spent several years in New York, performing jazz and rock piano and arranging for A&M Records. Later in life, I started an illustrious career as a contemporary classical composer.

~*~

Leah Ayliffe, Canada

— I was born in Toronto, in 1991. I have my BA degree in English Literature. Yet to me words are power. They can be cinematic, sonic, beautiful, ugly, simple and complex – pushing limits in endless ways. Words can be dangerous and liberating. I write because I feel I have to. There is a chaos stirring inside myself that only acts of creativity can fix- if only temporarily. Reality isn’t something I believe to be true, that would be disappointing.

~*~

Khaoula Basty, Tunisia

— Born in April 1987, I live in Manouba, Tunis, and began writing poetry in my early twenties. Over the years I have been involved in various Poetry projects and clubs. I now find a lot of inspiration through my job as an English teacher, because this gives me the opportunity to meet a variety of people who encourages me to write. I love also reading books and spend my free time reading.

~*~

Lawrence Beck, USA

— I live in the US, in Nebraska, with my wife and two of my four children. My wife and I are not native to this blandly attractive, relentlessly sunny area. We grew up in the Pacific Northwest, which features spectacular scenery, but also quite gloomy weather. I have brought that gloom with me, and it often shows up in my poems. Though I graduated from college, my degrees are in economics, not English or literature. I currently work part-time hauling freight in the back of a department store. My background, my distance from the “lit-crit” department/workshop hothouse, and my real-world job probably help to give my poems their unusual matter-of-factness. So, too, does my intense admiration for Elizabethan English poetry. I honestly believe that English language poetry, for the most part, steadily has declined since that era.

~*~

Daniel J. Brick, USA

— I was born in Minnesota, in the Twin Cities, in 1947 and lived my whole life here. This is where I am rooted, near the Mississippi River, in a landscape of four seasons with many trees and parks and lakes. These are the natural things I treasure. Poetry and classical music are my passions. Over the years most of my friends have moved to warmer climates, so in old age I find myself to be something of a loner. But I have a talent for solitude. Latest eBook published: ‘The Double Door’ – English Edition.

~*~

Sophy Chen, China

— Sophy is my pen name, the official name is Lihua Chen. I am a Chinese poetess and translator, born in 1975 in Lueyang County, Hanzhong City, Shaanxi Province. I graduated from English Institute of Xian Foreign Studies University in English Literature. I am the Founder of “Sophy Poetry & Translation Website” and its Chief Reviewing Editor, a researcher of the International Poetry Translation and Research Center, a guest chief editor of The World Poets Quarterly (Multilingual) and a member of the Translators Association of China. I began to write Chinese poetry in 1989, and English poetry in 2004. I’ve published my own poetry (English or Chinese) and translations, in newspapers and magazines. I’ve translated part of poems in the Chinese-English Textbook ‘300 New Chinese Poems (1917-2012)’ and in ‘World Poetry Yearbook 2013/2014’. I was awarded the “Legendary Poet”, in 2012, by the international English poetry website poetry.com. In the same year I won the annual “International Best Translator” Award 2012, issued by IPTRC. In 2014, I won the Chinese Contemporary Poetry (2013-2014) Translation Award. I’ve translated six Chinese poetry collections into English: ‘The Flower Swaying’ (2014), by Zhao Xingzhong; ‘Tibetan Incense’ (2014), by poetess ZiYing; ‘The Outlook of Life’ (2014), by Yang Ruopeng; ‘Different Tunes’ (2014) by poetess Greensleeves; ‘The Body Forward’ (2015) by painter Tan Jun, and ‘A Poetry Biography for White Snake’ by Liao Shidie. I’m currently living in Guangzhou, China.

~*~

Terence George Craddock, New Zealand

— Born in Westport, New Zealand, in 1960, I’ve lived in various places, in my country (Christchurch) and overseas (in Istanbul, Turkey, for four years, and Jakarta, Indonesia, for 10 years). Now I reside again in Westport. I have a large collection of poems, mostly posted at PoemHunter.com

~*~

Sahra Hussein Dahir, Somalia

— I was born in 1996. I grew up in Somaliland (north Somalia, which separated from Somalia in 1991 but is unrecognized internationally) and currently live there. In my spare time, I enjoy playing basketball, writing poems, and reading. I am introverted, left-handed, and according to sixteen personality types of the Myers-Briggs, I am an INTP person. I am an open-minded person who likes to learn different cultures and meet different people. My youngest brother’s name is Mohamed and every single time I see him he reminds me of my father. He is as handsome as my father, and he has his smile, his behavior and his walk. Everyone sees my father through my brother’s eyes. My father died when I was 12 years old and I remember that day. It was doleful days. The world will give you most things you need but time will take them away from you and replace them with pain and memory. After a long time struggle with the loss of my father, my life became unhappy and I fought almost everyone who was close to me. I couldn’t change what was happening around me so I took a journey to find what makes me happy. I find my life easier when I am alone and thinking about my imaginations. To explore more I focus on educating myself. After I took the Somaliland national examination, (examination for the 8th grades students for the all country), I found a boarding school that is locates outside of Hargaisa. The biggest reason I went to a boarding school was to get a good education to find a better life. I have had different experiences and found out the best qualities I have. I am a talented and creative person. I have earned three awards in my high school: first place in cross country running. I knew that I wanted to be like Edna Adan. Edna was one of the biggest heroes of educated women in Somaliland. I have learned two foreign languages (English and Arabic) and I graduated in 2015. The people I love the most are mother and my siblings. I have six younger siblings and four older ones. My family is kind of funny because I am the oldest and middle daughter. As my parent’s daughter, I am the oldest, but counting my half-siblings I am in the middle. I like travelling and know different people and different cultures. In my holidays I have traveled in the neighboring countries of Ethiopia and Djibouti. I started writing poems when I was in tenth grade, when I had been speaking English for only two years. Part of me was eager to share my emotions and the things that were going around me because one of my interests was to tell stories. My experience mostly inspired my poems. Writing poems is the way I express my feelings and it is a way I escape from the hard times and enjoy good times.

~*~

Driss Ezzireg, Morocco

— I am currently living in Meknés, Morocco. I was born in December 1953. I retired from teaching and supervising high school teachers in 2013. I’m now enjoying my life better. I paint, draw and write poems very loosely. Painting portraits is what I like best with a particular touch of mine. Poetry comes second as I gave it a try quite recently, though I read a lot of it in my life.

~*~

Geoffrey Fafard, Australia

— I am a landscape gardener, born on 11th April 1951 and living in Cairns, Queensland. I have been engaged in my own business for some 23 years. I am an avid traveler, with a large degree of interests in the foothills of the Himalayan mountains. I have wandered around all corners of Italy, Portugal, Spain, France and the UK, much to my delight, and also travelled to the USA. I write as I go, which to me is the best part. Collected written memories accumulate and accompany me through my journey of life. I have been writing forever and hope to continue.

~*~

Weiyao Feng, China

— I was born in 1993 and raised in Jiangmen, Guangdong province. Now a college student in my 4th year, studying finance. I want to be a programmer, because I recently discovered that it is my passion. I am a pretty good unprofessional soccer player in a team of my city and I am also a pretty good chess player, both Chinese and Classic chess. I’ve been writing poetry since high school, mainly in English. It lets my feelings to flow out: I feel good when I write. My mom is a doctor, here in China, while my father runs a restaurant in Venezuela.

~*~

Grant Fraser, UK (Scotland)

— I live in Aberdeen. I was born in June 1964 and began writing poetry in my early twenties. Over the years I have been involved in various poetry projects and groups. I now find a lot of inspiration through my job as a postman, as this gives me the opportunity to meet a variety of people as they go about their day to day lives. I am also a keen photographer and love to spend my free time capturing the weathered North East Coast.

~*~

Fabrizio Frosini, Italy

— Born in Tuscany in 1953. Currently living close to Florence and to Vinci, Leonardo’s hometown. Doctor in Medicine, specialized in Neurosurgery, with an ancient passion for Poetry. Author of more than 1300 poems, in 13 collections. Seven of them are published as eBooks. Among them: «The Chinese gardens – English Poems», and «Karumi – Haiku & Tanka» [visit my Author’s Page or read a poem].

~*~

Negar Gorji, Iran

— Born in 1995, I’m a twenty year old girl from Isfahan (in ancient time it was the capital of Persia and after a Persian proverb: “Esfahān nesf-e- jahān ast” – Isfahan is half of the world). I am a student of English literature at Sobhe Sadegh Institute, and love writing poetry and short novels –my favorite is to write about how I see the world, and I’ll tell you that I’m really looking for Peace. A few years ago, two of my short stories were published in “Etela’ate Haftegi” magazine, and I’m currently working on a new short novel whose theme is the major purpose of us all, the definition of ‘Life’. I have posted some of my poems at PoemHunter.com, but this is the first time that a poem of mine is published in a proper book.

~*~

Bright Kwamina Grantson, Ghana

— I hail from Enyan Abaasa, in the Central region of Ghana. I had my secondary education initially at Ordorgonno SHS, then to Ghana Lebanon Islamic SHS, where I earned the name ‘Bola-Bola’. I’m now at the Department of Mathematics Education; University of Education Winneba. I am always smiling and always busy. I love Mathematics with all my heart. One of my favorite quotes is “Life is like riding a bicycle. In order to maintain your balance you must keep moving forward“.

~*~

Dilantha Gunawardana, Sri Lanka

— I’m a university lecturer and scientist by day and a dreamy moonlighting poet who burns the midnight oil on his poetry blog. I was educated at University of Melbourne [Ph.D. and B.Sc.(Hons) in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology] and currently serve as a Senior Lecturer in the Molecular Plant Sciences. I was born and have lived most of my life in Sri Lanka, but I’m infused with traces of influence from Australia and the Philippines where I have resided for significant time periods. I consider myself an old-fashioned romantic and a drifter of fate who meanders like a river unknowing of its course. I am also a prime example of a late bloomer who loves the little things in life – quirky trivia, haiku poems and fireflies. [visit my blog]

~*~

Nosheen Irfan, Pakistan

— Born on 13 March, 1978 in Lahore, where I currently live. I studied English Literature at the University of the Punjab. I teach English to secondary classes. I’m the daughter of a civil engineer who inculcated the love of books in me. Thanks to his taste in literature, I had access to some great literary classics at an early age. I became an avid reader and have gathered an impressive collection of books over the years. I turned to writing at a later age but have made it a point to write daily ever since. I draw inspiration from both classical and contemporary literature. Apart from that, Nature, people, life and social issues inspire me to take up the pen. I have my work published in “Eastlit” magazine and hope to find a wider readership in the future. I have had the good fortune to read great literary works by internationally renowned writers that have enlightened my mind and broadened my horizons. Literature has helped me grow as a person. I have become more open-minded through my exposure to great minds and have gained a broader perspective on life. I will love to take up writing as a profession if the opportunity arises. Yet, at the moment I’m content writing to express myself creatively. It gives me the greatest pleasure to become a voice that is heard somewhere.

~*~

Galina Italyanskaya, Russia

— I was born in the USSR, in Ukhta, a small northern town surrounded by forests, and grew up there between civilization and wilderness. From the early childhood my curiosity about everything in the world has no limits. I love nature, science and art, music and literature, travels and discoveries, and of course I love my children. Thanks to my friend I began to write poetry in English about 8 years ago, and now I can share it with you.

~*~

Afrooz Jafarinoor, Iran

— I was born in 1972, on a cold day of January, the same date as Federico Fellini. I’m from Hamedan, Iran, now a resident of Tehran. I’m a teacher and writer. I have studied two majors: English and dramatic literatures. I write poetry, plays and scripts and I translate various texts. I know some languages except English, German, Kurdish and Turkish, but none as well as English, and my mother tongue is Persian, as I was born an Iranian. daughter of a brave war veteran and a talented gentlewoman, fortunately I’ve grown to be truly human.

~*~

Farzad Jahanbani, Iran

— Born in Iran in 1980, I live in Tehran, the capital. I’ve a master degree of EMBA. I have been writing poems since 1995 in my native language (Persian) and, since 2014, also in English. Visitmy web-page at PoemHunter.

~*~

Vincent Chizoba John, Nigeria

— I hail from Nkporo, in Abia State, and I currently live in Lagos, the major city and former capital of Nigeria. I am a poet, film director and novelist.

~*~

Kinyua Karanja, Kenya

—

I’m a Kenyan freelance writer, a poet and screenwriter, living in Nairobi. I am in my final year in University of Nairobi doing B.Ed (Arts), majoring in Philosophy and religion. I was born in 1990 in Central Kenya, into a Christian family. My knowledge in philosophy, religion and Christianity background has shaped my writing especially poetry. I have a great interest in history and current political and social issues in the world. I write out of passion to make a change in social and political life for an ideal society. I have a lot of work to be published in near future.

~*~

Sofia Kioroglou, Greece

— I was born in 1974 in Athens -where I live-, on a beautiful Saturday morning. I’m a writer, a prolific blogger and poet; my work is included in several publications. I believe in small kindnesses, daily chocolate, and happy endings. You can learn more about me visiting my blog

~*~

Varghese Kuncheria, India (currently in Oman)

— I’m Varghese Kuncheria, an Indian national working in Muscat, Oman, since 2004. I was born on February 14, 1953 in India. I did my M.A. in English literature from Christ Church College, Kanpur (Kanpur University, India). I’m a senior Lecturer, teaching British and American literature to the undergraduate students in a college in Oman. I started writing poems while I was working as a teacher in Ethiopia during the period of 1978 – 1985, and continue to write after a long gap, again from 2009 onwards. I’m very passionate about the peaceful co-existence of the people anywhere in this planet, and cherish to see such a world order. I’m a good chess player too.

~*~

Kelly Kurt, USA

— Born in 1958, I’m a father of six children. During my life I have explored many avocations: I’ve been a competitive athlete, singer, gardener, woodworker, ravenous reader, experimenter and philosopher. I’ll beam and prattle on when asked about my personal high energy accelerator lab, my time as a bodybuilder, my green thumb, days in my band or the buildings I helped to restore, but get the most joy from talking about my children. Divorced for many years, I now live in Polo (Illinois), in a 160 year old church building that I helped friends restore nearly a decade ago. Taking care of the church and its grounds is my daily occupation now, and I draw from this passion for much of my current poetry. In my early teens, my mother instilled a love of writing in me. Unfortunately, in my senior year of high school, my beloved mother died. But I continued to write and my words often portrayed the unfairness and pain of life. Yet, the wonder of nature, the beauty of friendship and mystery of life in general, would alter my poetic direction. Some universal themes would still work their way into my writing, but the day to day, seemingly mundane aspects of existence began to be explored as in depth topics: the spider, trapped in a sink by slippery, stainless steel walls, fruit falling over-ripe to the ground and rotting, and even just observations of the back of my own hand.

Until 2015, I had written almost exclusively for my own eyes. But with some encouragement I sought out a publisher for a humor book, inspired by my children. After many rejections, a contract was obtained. The thought of being published for humor alone sparked a desire to have my poetry seen as well, and I became a member of an online poetry site. This renewed enthusiasm for my verse and led me to a new burst of creativity. I promote the joys and benefits of writing to almost everyone I meet and encourage new poets to find their voice. I still wish to be remembered as a loving father above everything else, even a poet. Title of my book: ‘Good Night, Sleep Tight: Dos & Don’ts for Bedbugs’. Visit my Facebook-page.

~*~

Lionel Lerch aka Cocteau Mot Lotov, France

— Born in France, live in Lyon. Member of the French Slam Team «La Tribut du Verbe». Winner France slam championship 2014. Invited by Marc Smith to perform for the show «uptown poetry slam», Chicago, April 2015. Two books published: «Attentats rhétoristes» (éd. 205, Lyon, 2015); «Château de cartes» (éd. La passe du vent, Lyon, 2012).

~*~

Birgit Bunzel Linder, Germany (currently in HK)

— I was born in 1962 as the ninth and last child of a blue collar family in Oberhausen, a coal mining town in Germany. I left Germany in 1990 to get my PhD degree at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. I also lived in Taiwan and China, and now in Hong Kong. I hold degrees in Sinology, Dutch Literature, Political Science, Modern Chinese Literature, and German Literature. I am professor of Chinese and Comparative Literary Studies at the City University of Hong Kong, and my research and writing concerns the areas of literary madness, Medical Humanities, Gothic literature, and German literature. I have previously published poetry and photography in Asian Cha, the International Literature Quarterly, Cerebration, Kavya Bharati, Clockwise Cat, and Mad Poets Review, and other Chinese journals. My other interests include reading, writing, Chinese ink and watercolor painting, and photography. In 2013 I won the Proverse International Prize for Poetry for my poetry collection Shadows in Deferment.

~*~

Tapera Makadho, Zimbabwe

— I was born on the 18th of February 1974 in the communal lands of Zaka District on the periphery of Masvingo in Zimbabwe. I attended Mafuratidze Primary School from 1982-88 before enrolling at Machingambi Secondary School where I attained my GCE ‘O’ Level in 1992. I lost my father in 1988 and grew up under the care of my grandmother as such advancing with my education became difficult. Pursuing higher learning was a luxury they couldn’t afford hence I had to contend with my GCE certificate. In 1997 I trained as a Policeman with the Zimbabwe Republic Police whereupon completion of training I was posted to the quasi military wing of the Organization; Support Unit. Subsequent to my posting to this Unit, I found the duties there challenging, at times dictate that I preoccupy myself with writing especially when deployed in the scary game parks. Spanning to over 18 years, these gruelling experiences undoubtedly carved both my character and the manner in which I perceive life issues. I then started writing poetry sometime in 2005 after a former colleague and close friend, Elvis Nikisi who was already into poetry had invited me to write a poem which I did and have been writing ever since. I’m married to Caroline and we are blessed with a daughter Kudzai aged 6 years.

~*~

Kenneth Maswabi, Botswana

— I am a Motswana born on 14th November 1977 in Maun, Botswana. A Motswana means a native of Botswana. I am currently living in Francistown, Botswana. I am not married but have one son. I studied Medicine and Surgery at the University of Melbourne, Australia. I am now working as Study Coordinator/Physician, specializing in clinical trials research. Poetry to me is a way of communication (to myself and others) beyond the normal physical reality/connections. Poetry nourishes the senses, grooming them to perceive even the slightest physical/emotional/spiritual imbalances in environment or myself. I started writing poetry as a teenager; mainly love poems (I found it easier to express my feelings in a poem). I continued to be a closet poet until about one year ago when I discovered PoemHunter.

~*~

Denzel Mbatha, Zimbabwe (currently in South Africa)

— I was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, and currently living in Cape Town, South Africa. I’m a poet, I wish to write like my heroes one day, the likes of Tupac Shakur and Shakespeare. I’m also a novelist.

~*~

Mallika Menon, India

— I hail from Kerala’s capital city, Trivandrum, on India’s southern tip, but I enjoyed my life in Mumbai. Lover of music and literature, I sing songs and poems. One day, I started singing my own poems! I offer collection of poems in mother tongue Malayalam as well as English. Simple emotions, gentle feelings and shades of empathy reflect in my poetry. I like reading philosophy. I enjoy interior decoration. I’m travel-savvy, keen to explore cultures and cuisines world-over.

~*~

Leloudia Migdali, Greece

— My name is Leloudia Migdali. I was born in 1959 in Itea, a nice little city close to Delphi, ‘the center of world’. Attended school there till 1979, then followed a course in the English Literature Department of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. Back to Itea, where I still live, ran my own English institute till I was appointed at the public sector. I have been teaching English for the past 29 years, in Primary, Secondary and High school as well as in the Maritime College in Galaxidi city. Meanwhile I got a postgraduate degree on Teaching English as a Foreign Language from Patras University. Poetry and writing has always been my favorite hobbies. After my retirement from public sector, I have been devoting more time in writing poetry. Currently writing poems on life and the way I see it. I also write contemporary articles on online sites. Happily married and mother of two children.

~*~

Asoke Kumar Mitra, India

— I live in Kolkata, India. By profession a journalist , writing mainly on finance. A stock market feature writer and an analyst, I’ve been writing poems for last 45 years.. Poetry is my passion.

“Dark comes in, grows around me, the void in my heart says you are absent“.

~*~

Zoran Mitrović aka Neran Sati, Croatia

— Born in Zagreb, in 1950, I’m a doctor in Medicine, specialized in Neurology. Got my MD and PhD at the University of Zagreb; my MS in Neuroscience from Yale University Graduate School. I have been writing poems in my native language (Croatian) since I was a student. In 1993 I published a book of collected poems: “Ponoćni leptir” (Midnight butterfly) in the ‘Albatros’ series. Further, I contributed to three anthology volumes written by Croatian doctors in Medicine: “Vukovarsko zvono” (Vukovar bell) (1995), “Sat bez vremena” (Clock beyond time) (1999), and “Liječnici pisci u Hrvatskoj književnosti od Dimitrije Demetra do danas” (Physicians writers in Croatian literature since Dimitrije Demeter till today) (2008); the latter published by the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts. Since 2015, I’ve posted 85 poems in English at the website PoemHunter, under the alias ‘Neran Sati’. I believe and support the genuine humanistic vocation of a dedicated work, so to improve any intercultural antagonism, along with and through an Education emerging from the Universal Humanistic ideas and principles, enriched by modern Science.

~*~

Istvan Dan Molnar Uriel, Sweden

— I live in Sweden, in a place called Nykroppa, Varmland, but I was born in Hungary in 1950, in a small community close to Budapest, called Fot, where I grew up. Time and expectation was always greater than what a simple life could offer: my dreams always went to the sky.. I’ve seen lot of falling stars all my life, even in my dreams. My life changed after military services; got married, moved to Budapest, began to study at the technical college. Before last year’s ending, moved to Sweden with my wife.. A new life again, studying Swedish, even French, later English, and more languages.. I began reading a lot of books, most of them in Swedish and English. I’ve always liked Science, but Psychology and Philosophy were my passion: Einstein, Sigmund Freud, Maimonides, Friedrich Hegel… After 3 children my wife wanted a divorce.. A new life again, but the details were more painful. I went to Paris for a short time. I’ve been a legionary, but found no consolation. Back to Sweden, I was later asked to move to Israel.. Another language to learn, again. After 13 years there I got enough, so I came back to Sweden as a retired man. Now I live in solitude, with my dreams.. mostly reading and writing poetry. Sometimes I dream about words: I like seeing words in pictures and I’ve begun to find connections between words and pictures..

~*~

Souren Mondal, India

— I was born in Chandannagar, north of Kolkata (West Bengal) – where I live-, on 10th November 1991. It was a Sunday and that, somehow (I suspect), shows my fondness for both holidays and procrastination. My first serious encounter with poetry was when I was 16 and read Ronsard’s “Quand vous serez bien vieille” (‘Sonnets for Hélène’, 1578), a poem that left an impact on me. I always prefer writing about whatever that comes in my mind in as simple way as I can. But at the same time prefer to write about social issues from personal experiences. I don’t know if I am a good or bad poet, but I write..

~*~

Anitah Muwanguzi, Uganda

— I was born 31st Dec 1992 in Jinja, Uganda, and I am currently living in Kampala, the capital. An unpublished fiction writer and poet, I’m practicing journalism at 104.1 Power FM in Kampala. I am still pursuing a bachelors degree in development studies at Makerere University, Kampala.

~*~

Bharati Nayak, India

— I hail from Odisha, an eastern state of India which has a great heritage of art and architecture. I was born in 1962 and live in Bhubaneswar with my husband and our three lovely children. I have done my Masters degree in Political Science from Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Writings are our signature we leave for the posterity. Writings connect our hearts with other hearts across globe, across space and time. Writings help in our inner growth and can bring about profound change in the society. Writing is my hobby and passion. I write in English and in the vernacular language Odiia. I have published one poetry book in Odia titled ‘Padma Pada’. My English poems have been published in the newspaper ‘The Statesman’, in the magazine ‘Odisha Review’ and in the Anthology book ‘Splash of Verse’. My Odia poems have been published in a number of newspapers, like ‘Samaya’ and ‘Anupam Bharat’, and magazines like ‘Utkal Prasang’, and others. I am a member in different poetry organizations, in India and abroad, and also write a blog, namely Bharatispen on WordPress.

~*~

Valsa George Nedumthallil, India

— Born in 1953, I live in Ernakulam, Kerala. After a successful career as a college teacher, when I retired from service, I took to poetry. Now it has become an obsession and a mentally rewarding engagement. As a sensitive person and a lover of fellow beings, I am grieved to see the insidious and sometimes horrendous assault on man and Nature. I write on a wide spectrum of topics spanning Nature, Love and Human relations. As most others, I long for a peaceful world where man is bound to man by the invisible thread of love and live in amity and harmonious co existence.

~*~

Srijana Neupane (KC), Nepal

— My family name is Neupane, but we have been using “K.C.” since generations (it stands for “Khatri Chhetri”), and I have KC in all my official documents and citizenship. I was born in 1990, in a middle class hindu family, in Kathmandu, where I live. I have two siblings. Being my father a Captain in Nepal army, recently retired, I went to the army school. Later I completed my MBBS degree on 2012, then internship on 2013, and worked as house officer for a year. At present my situation is exactly the same as my country: we don’t know where we are heading! I write both to express myself and for my love for Art and Creativity. Only recently I started sharing my poems, and this is the first time I have one of them published in a real ebook. Besides I like painting, reading books, visiting places, trekking at times. Yet, sleeping is what I’d like the most, if only I could.. but I know I will never get free time once I enroll in post graduation. I listen keenly to Buddha’s words and therefore follow peace since my childhood. My name Srijana in Nepali means “Creation”.

~*~

Eunice Barbara C. Novio, Philippines (currently in Thailand)

— I am a Filipino residing in Thailand, where I’m an English Lecturer at Vongchavalitkul University, in Nakhon Ratchasima. I’m a poet and a free-lance journalist, being a regular contributor at the Global Pinoy Section of the Philippine Daily Inquirer. I’m an activist and one of the first to call against the Lumad killings, an indigenous people in the Philippines, through here poetry published in the Philippines. I’ve just published my first collection of poetry entitled ‘Maps of Dreams and Memories’, which is now available at Amazon and Lulu.com. A number of my poems are also included in anthologies. I’m also a woman’s advocate and my researches are published internationally. I live with my husband, Josemari Cordova, our children Kairos and Karina, and our five cats, in Thailand. My eldest child, Karl Malcolm, is in the Philippines finishing his university education.

~*~

Fatima Obaidi, Pakistan

— I was born in a Muslim family, on a Friday, 19th December 1997, in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. My father gave me this holy name, Fatima. Reading, writing, calligraphy, painting are my hobbies. I started writing poems when I was in 5th class and I did write many ghazaliyat (poems) in Urdu. I love writing, it is my passion, I have it in my soul. I also write short stories, novels and articles. I am a student and I will continue writing, along with my studies, because knowledge will give me a better chance in life and writing will motivate it – hence both are essential for me, and hope that my poetry will be liked by the Readers.

~*~

Marcondes Pereira Da Silva De Mesquita, Brazil

— Born in 1991, I live in Barueri (Brazil – State: São Paulo). I’m a poet who is searching for my own truth, in this liquid world. I write to understand myself and the chaotic universe we’re living in. I love to study languages and listening to Heavy Metal. My poetry speaks about war, love, religion, Philosophy, History and several other themes, although I write chronicles, tales and theatre plays too. My biggest influences in terms of poetry are: Camões, Petrarca, Boccaccio and Homero. I study their texts to create my own epopees, which I would like to see transformed in music. In my free time I love reading (both poetry and novels) and spending with my girlfriend. I am technologist in Human Resources by Faculty Fernão Dias and in 2015 I started to study three languages: Spanish, Finnish and Japanese. I love to know and learn about different cultures around the world, and I’d like to show the world my poetry and prose writings.

~*~

Sajee Rayaroth, Australia

— I am an Australian Citizen living in Brisbane, Queensland and a Chartered Engineer by profession. I was born in India and hold an Overseas Citizen of India status as well. I did my Post Graduation in 1995 and currently pursuing PhD at University of South Australia. As part of my engineering profession, I have lived in many parts of the world including the Middle East, Europe, South East Asia and now settled in Australia. This gave me a chance to learn various cultures, people and way of life in different countries. I have an immense passion towards literature. I have written several poems and short stories mainly in two languages: English and Malayalam (Indian language). Being an avid reader and enthusiastic writer in the social media, I have published some of my works in the National and International media, both in English and in Malayalam.

~*~

Marianne Larsen Reninger, USA

— I was born in Denmark in 1944 and emigrated to the United States with my parents in 1947. I began painting and writing at a very young age and by 16 was studying painting and taking commissions. My prime influence was a Russian born artist, Tatiana McKinney, world famous with work in the Vatican and in major museums. From Tatiana I learned to see “the atmosphere between the mountains” and the “meaning between the words”. Today, I paint and write from my mountaintop home near Asheville, N.C.. I consider myself an “editorial artist” with my acrylic/collages often containing original poetry. My work is textural, touchable glimpses of the natural world and my reaction to life’s political and social merry-go-round, words become as important as the brush strokes. The work is meant to be read, like a favorite book or poem, as well as, absorbed, like a visual feast. My websites: http://www.mariannelarsenreninger.com;http://www.pinterest.com (Marianne Reninger,marianne’s Art board).

~*~

Terry Robinson aka HE George, UK (England)

— I am 57 and retired Research Scientist, living in Fareham, close to Portsmouth. I have been married for 37 years. I have two daughters who have grown and flown. I have one dog, two cats. I walk, write and contemplate. I spent 15 years in the Army. And served with 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment in the Falklands Conflict 1982 and as a Brick Commander on the Streets of Northern Ireland, during the ‘Troubles’. I earned my British Armed Forces Parachute Wings in 1986. Further, I represented my Corps in the World Free Fall Championships. When I re-joined civilian life, I earned my first degree in Molecular Biology and my PhD in Molecular Biophysics and Crystallography. I became a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Portsmouth. My birth name is Terence Robinson, but I write using my father’s initials HEG, after losing my father to cancer in 1991.

~*~

Rizwan Saleem, Pakistan (currently in UAE)

— I am a Pakistani banker based in Dubai, UAE, born on 25th Oct 1978. The thoughts and expressions detailed in my works are of my various escapades suffered through life, and of the profound surprise of having survived long enough to pen them into words. My poems have appeared in anthologies: ‘Twenty Seven Signs’ by Lady Chaos Press and ‘Self Portrait – Poetry Collection’ by Silver Birch Press.

~*~

Leila Samarrai, Serbia

— Born in 1976, in the city of Kragujevac, Serbia, I’m a writer and translator of Serbian-Arabian origin. I write poetry, stories, plays and novels and envelops them in the motives of fantasy and humor. My direction in literature is to weave fantastic realism into horror stories, and the use of magic realism and the surreal. My debut poetry book won the first prize at the Student cultural center of Kragujevac competition. My work has appeared in many local magazines, both in print and electronic publications. I’m currently living and working in Belgrade. I love cats. [visit my blog]

~*~

Kirti Sharma, India

— I am 19 years old (born in 1996) and live in Delhi, India. Currently I am pursuing my Under graduation in Science from Delhi University. I started writing poems when I was 15 years old, as I realized that only a few words can describe the beauty of nature. I learned how each line of a poem has its own music. The poems written by P.B. Shelly are my favorite, ‘Goodnight’ being the one of them. I generally write poems on love and solitary as these two conditions are common in every person’s life. My poems consists of simple words & are easily understood. Even though I’ve been writing poems since many years, I had never taken part in any poetry competition, because i could not write poems on any given topic until and unless i don’t feel it from my heart. But last year i gave it a try and secured a third position which increased my self confidence. I am looking forward to other poetry competitions in the coming months. My other hobbies are singing, dancing and reading novels. Paulo Coelho is my favorite author. I am planning to study genetics or marine biology in my Post Graduation.

~*~

Anzelyne Shideshe, Kenya (currently in Germany)

— born and bred in Eldoret, Kenya, in 1982, where attended high school up to year 2000. In 2002 I moved to Mombasa where I studied marketing at the Technical University. Working in sales and marketing has been a plus to more experiences. I’m currently in Germany (Baden-Württemberg) and my passion to write intensified.

~*~

Osiel Silverino da Silva aka Osiel Basílio, Brazil

— I was born in January 16, 1983, in the city of Cariacica (ES, Brazil), where I currently live. My city is small, but it’s close to the state’s capital. I love writing: I’ve been writing since I was a child and not a day passes on without I write something. My father has always been my inspiration: although blind in one eye, he reads widely. I have two books published: ‘Stop of Ritual’ and ‘In the basement of the soul’.

~*~

Pamela S. Sinicrope, USA

— I was born in Frederick, Maryland in 1970. I spent most of my youth in Texas; and now, for the past 13 years, I have lived in Rochester, MN with my husband and three children. I have a doctorate in Public Health, with an interest in reducing morbidity and mortality from cancer through focus on families, lifestyles, and genetics. As a young child and raised as a Unitarian, I have fond memories of hiking in the woods and reading poetry while sitting on rocks and communing with nature. When I was twelve, my grandmother and I used to write letters and share our poetry with each other. I enjoy: tennis, music of all kinds, reading (poetry and prose), and spending time with my family. I returned to writing poetry over the past year in my 40’s. Now that my children and I are older, I have time again, to reflect, write, and read. And I love doing it most every day!

~*~

Petra Soliman, Egypt (currently in the GCC)

— Born in 1991, I am an Egyptian-born freelance writer, currently living within the GCC since 2000. I participates in debate competitions as well as leagues to raise awareness for women participation.

~*~

Douglas Stewart, USA

— Born 72 short years ago in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA on a cold February morning in the middle of World War II. Father a would-be farmer who, in reality, was an argumentative, fundamentalist machinist. Mother a housewife and on-again off-again Retail manager. I went to South Division High School, in Milwaukee, spent a brief period in the United States Air Force, did some time at National Public Television’s Milwaukee branches, Channels 10 and 36 as a production student. I almost gave it all up to become a cameraman —man, that was fun! Finally graduated cum laude from UW-M with a degree in History and a minor in American Literature. I have been a fireman (safety man) on the Chicago Northwestern Railroad, a district circulation manager for the Milwaukee Sentinel, a fabricating plant manager, a long haul, I’ve been everywhere, truck driver, and an editor and designer for TSR, Inc., the creators of Dungeons and Dragons©. And through it all, I have been a poet. Now, I didn’t mind that, except for the fact that we get little respect and little to no money, I really do love it. Besides, it’s like my own, private curse. I frequently refer to myself as “The Napkin Poet”, a term I owe to Rapper Talib Kweli, who recalled writing rhymes on napkins in an interview on an American talk show. It struck a chord, because that’s exactly what I have always done, grabbing any scrap of paper to jot a scene, a rhyme, a phrase. In the big truck, however, I had a wee, battery powered cassette recorder so I wouldn’t have to take my eyes off the road. These days, of course, my napkin has a keyboard and a large screen, and I keep an IPOD next to my bed for late night inspirations. I rather do everything, but in poetic form. I like storytelling, science, humor, ancient mysteries and contemporary puzzles. As a trained historian, that too is grist for my mill. I collect unusual, archaic, and obscure words and have no qualms about using them in my work. My motto is actually a quote from Bob Dylan, “But I was so much older then, I’m younger than that now”. I currently reside in Elkhorn, Wisconsin with my wife Georgia.

~*~

Richard Thézé, UK (England) (currently in Germany)

— I was born in 1959 and am English. I have always enjoyed reading poetry. In 2009, however, I was asked by the director of the Bangkok school where I taught to write a poem, as a tribute to the King of Thailand’s sister who had died the previous year. Though originally written in German, the poem was published in a high-society Thai magazine in English. The same year, I wrote a second eulogy following the tragic death of a fellow teacher. Moved by the touching words spoken about him by his mother at his funeral service, I felt the need to record the words and my own feelings on hearing them. Since then, I have written a number of poems. I do not find the creative process an easy one. The right inspiration and having something pertinent to say on a topic is, I feel, the most important aspects of my writing. I am currently an English teacher at an International School in Bremen, Germany.

~*~

Udaya R. Tennakoon, Sri Lanka (living in Switzerland)

— As a Diaspora Poet, I live in Zürich, Switzerland, but my home country is Sri Lanka, where I was born in 1970. Being a political refugee, I could see the world in many perspectives and engage with writing and research. I graduated from University of Colombo and University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. At the University of Basel, Switzerland, and also at the University of Innsbruck, Austria, I studied ‘Peace and Conflict Transformation’. As a writer, I’ve written some theater works and contribute articles to many websites. [visit my blog]

~*~

Savita Tyagi, USA

— Born in 1948 I was raised and educated in North India studying History, Hindi and Sanskrit literature and English as a required foreign language for B.A. and completing my M.A. in Western History. After my marriage I migrated to California and later came to live in Oklahoma, Edmond, where I reside currently with my husband of 46 years. I have been a part time public school teacher and volunteer while my children were growing up. For some time my love for reading was limited to Fiction, history and literature of English language partly because I couldn’t keep up with my language. However the need to expose our children to their language, culture and religion brought me back to my roots. While organizing children’s classes at my home and temple I started studying more of our spiritual books in English as well as in Sanskrit and realized that some of the best poetry worldwide was hidden in the ancient literature. In contemporary writers Shri Aurobindo’s writings have influenced me most. At a friend’s urging we have started a Sri Aurobindo Bhagvad Geeta study group. When and where I started writing poetry I do not know. I guess when thoughts started screaming for expression! Looking back I have enjoyed and learned immensely from this journey of more than thirty years and hope to keep up with it. Some of my poems have been published in newspaper, anthology, and magazines. A self published book of poems, ‘Back Yard Poetry’, is available through Blurb. Since I have been a leisure and pleasure writer, most of my poetry and other writings have been on my blog When Thoughts Get Wings.

~*~

Mai Murphy Venn, Ireland

— I live in a town called New Ross, County Wexford. I am in my early sixties. I am married to Edno and we have a large family. I love poetry and I find it to be a way to express emotion. I can say things in a poem I would not dare to say in my every day chat. I can become the voice of the oppressed that have no one to speak up on their behalf. I suffer with dyslexia but I will not let it be a barrier. If I have something to say, I will say it. If I have something to write, I will write it. When people are killed by the hands of terrorists and there is a retaliation as a result more innocence lives are eradicated. I feel that my weapon, the pen, will strike a chord sometime in the right ear. I am not a good writer by any means but I will make the attempt to speak out about wrong doing.

~*~

Niken Kusuma Wardani, Indonesia

— I was born on February 17, 1976 in Jakarta where I spent most of my life with my husband and our two daughters. Despite the demanding work hours in Garments Company I preserved a special thought for words of poetry. I love to captures the feeling or scenes of imaginary tales in my poems. Poetry is a great sanctuary, where to find harmony and a rest from the daily hectic life. This anthology is my 4th publishing experience and I’m pleased to take part in such a collective work, being together with my fellow poets from different parts of the world.

~*~

Snir Yacoby, Israel

— I was born in 1989, in Israel, and lived my whole life here. This is where I am rooted. This land is in constant struggle to survive, and that has made the people here downtrodden, but also warm and honest. These are the natural things I treasure. I studied Computer Science at the Holon Institute of Technology. Poetry, music and programming are my passions. I hope to be very successful in my field one day and I always surround myself with plenty of friends to support me and I also support them. The city I live in is Ness-Ziona.

~*~

Asma Zenjali, Morocco

— Born in 1993 in a middle class family, I live in Marrakech, where I study Linguistics and English Literature in Cady Ayyad University. I love reading poetry and fictions. I started writing poems in 2013, but I have also written a short novel. My favourite poets are William Carlos Williams and Seamus Heaney, while among novelists I especially like Earnest Hemingway and Virginia Wolf.

Ellias Aghili- Iran

Born on the 28th of January, 1996 in a family who love art, literature and history. Ellias soon found his taste in literature and especially poetry. He wrote his first limerick when was 12 years old. Later on when he was 14, books like “the peace book by Todd Parr”, “let there be peace on earth: and let it begin with me by Jill Jackson and Sy Miller” , “What does peace feel like? By Vladimir Radunsky “helped him to get familiar with the essence of peace. Reading poems by Calude Mckay , Wendell Berry and Robert Frost in that age inspired him to start writing poems in a more serious way, sonnets of Shakespeare were also good sources of inspiration for him. So when he was 16, Ellias wrote the book called: “International Poems Collection” the book got the first provincial place in the most famous competition of inventions in Iran , “Kharazmi ” and the fifth place in the country competition, yet to be the only project of its kind. This book received confirmations from the University of Isfahan and now is being preserved in the ministry of science and research and technology. Next year, Ellias with the cooperation of two hardworking and creative friends, (Hosein Heidari and Hooman Danesh) wrote another poetry booked called: A Path to Salvation. This book also won Kharazmi awards. His Excellency, Dr. Zarif, wrote a thanks letter for Ellias for the book since it includes some nice and extraordinary elements of literature, humanity, peace and international relations. Other literary academicals project he’s worked on are: “Death of Sarah Black, Explosion of apartheid and the footstep of Apartheid in Vietnam”. Ellias is going to publish another poetry collection named “Peace Poems” in the close future. He’s currently the second secretary of M.O.P (messengers of peace) cultural-scientific group, a main member of EAA (English academic association of the University of Isfahan, faculty of the foreign languages) and also the North American and Scandinavian mythology instructor.

Estabraq (Istabraq) Rafea Gharkan- Iraq

My name is Estabraq (Istabraq) Rafea Gharkan. I was born in Iraq, in Anbar, Ramadi, in 1986. I have MA in English literature from the University of Baghdad/ College of Arts. Currently, I am an Asst-instructor of English poetry at the University of Anbar/ Faculty of Arts/ Dept. of English. Poetry is of a paramount importance to me. I consider teaching and writing English poetry as unique and life-changing experiences which played a vital role in shaping my mentality, gave me an opportunity to explore serious issues and helped me reach a better understanding of life. I firmly believe that poetry, as well as any form of creative writing, can undoubtedly be an effective tool to achieve cultural understanding between nations or cultures. Poetry opens our eyes to the true value and significance of cultural diversity and difference. It also stresses the need to communicate and share our values, interests and knowledge. To me, to write poetry is to write your identity and to expose your cultural heritage, by peaceful means, to the other in order to bridge any cultural gap. Thus, my future goals aim at studying creative writing in order to develop my creative talent as a poet, and to help people change their life for the better.