“Vi Overlever ikke” by Fatemeh Ekhtesari is a profoundly personal and highly critical collection of poetry that delves into themes of sexuality, gender roles, religion, freedom of expression, and hypocrisy. Born in 1986, Ekhtesari infuses her verses with a poignant reflection of her painful encounters with Iran’s legal system and prison system. Her work encapsulates the challenges she faced, leading to her eventual escape and recognition as a refuge writer in Norway in 2017.
This bilingual edition, presented in both Persian and Norwegian, captures the essence of Ekhtesari’s courageous voice and her innovative contributions to Persian poetry. Nina Zandjani skillfully translates Ekhtesari’s work into Norwegian, allowing readers to appreciate the richness of the original text. The collection also features an insightful afterword by poet Mehdi Mousavi, providing additional context and depth to Ekhtesari’s artistic and literary journey.
“Vi Overlever ikke” is not merely a poetry collection; it is a testament to resilience, a confrontation of societal norms, and an exploration of the human spirit’s ability to endure. Through Ekhtesari’s verses, readers are invited to navigate the complexities of her experiences, gaining a deeper understanding of the intersections between personal struggles, societal critique, and the transformative power of language.