Naqsh-e Jahan Square Isfahan Iran

Iran – a Poem for Reza – my guide

Inspired by my trip to Iran

I recently vacationed in Iran. Yes, that Iran. The one we are constantly being told is the evil empire run by madmen. I am happy to report that that is not the Iran that I experienced. As a native New Yorker, born and raised, even I had reservations visiting the country. But that’s the reason we travel. Isn’t it? To connect, learn, and empathize with all that the world has to offer. Because of this trip I have a deeper appreciation for the country and it’s people.

As we were flying across Iran from Shiraz to Tehran I was inspired by all that we experienced and wrote this poem. Each line echos actual witnessed events or is based on the art, architecture, and culture I experienced. From Zoroastrianism and the Achaemenid Empire to Persian Rugs, Islamic Calligraphy, or the sounds within its bazaars.

شعر برای رضا
Poem for Reza
by Alexander Westerman