I am Fatemeh Ekhtesari, an Iranian poet, writer, and activist whose journey is marked by resilience, a love for language, and a deep commitment to societal causes. With a background in midwifery, I’ve found my true calling in the world of words, crafting a body of work that spans various literary genres with ten publications to date.

At the core of my literary exploration is the Iranian literary movement known as “Postmodern Ghazal.” This movement reflects my exploration of themes such as sexuality, religion, gender, and the ongoing struggle for women’s rights. My poems, translated into multiple languages and even adapted into musical compositions, seek to foster international conversations on the complexities of the human experience.

Beyond writing, I delve into activism, addressing women’s issues, and challenging gender discrimination and domestic violence. Articles on platforms like Radio Zamaneh cover topics from the gendering of language to women’s sexual liberation and artistic freedom.

My journey has had its share of challenges, notably my imprisonment in Iran in 2015. Despite the adversity, I found the courage to escape and seek refuge in Norway with the help of ICORN. In the face of these challenges, I persist in my literary pursuits, contributing to global conversations on human rights and social justice. My life and work stand as a testament to the transformative power of literature and activism.

As a poet, editor, human rights activist, and midwife, I contribute to the literary landscape as the chief editor of the online literature magazine Independent Iranian Literature. I’ve been involved with postmodern magazines, including Hamin farad bud (It was just tomorrow) until its closure in 2008.

My published works, from poetry collections like “The Great Idol” to short story compilations such as “Swimming in the Acid Pool,” reflect my dedication to exploring women’s rights. Recognitions, such as the Jaleh Esfahani Prize and the Khorshid Prize, acknowledge my contributions to Iranian poetry. In 2017, I became an ICORN writer in residence in Lillehammer, Norway.

Currently, I am working on projects, including my second book in Norway—a bilingual Norwegian-Persian poetry collection—and a forthcoming Persian short story compilation titled “Ebi.” My commitment to the written word persists as I navigate the realms of artistic expression, human rights, and social justice.