Journeys

Poet Marjorie N. Cowan has had extensive experience with the xenophobia of many of America's communities. As a child in the Deep South during the civil rights era, she understood at a young age the need to speak out against prejudice in all its forms.

Many of the poems in Cowan's new collection are fiercely political. Outraged at the status quo cemented by the 2016 presidential election, Cowan uses her writing to force readers to evaluate their own prejudices and role in an unjust system.

Other poems in Cowan's collection are deeply personal. When her beloved son died unexpectedly in 2003, she channeled her grief and frustration into her writing. As Cowan honored her son, she also looked back on the sacrifices her ancestors had made to give her a better life. She weaves the tales of her parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents into the fabric of every poem.

In addition to poems covering the personal and political spheres, Cowan's work also contains a powerful spiritual dimension. Her strong Islamic faith helped her persevere after senseless tragedy, and the Almighty Creator has served as her foundation in the midst of profound grief and frustration.