May Ziadeh

May Ziadeh (1886-1941) was an inspired, prolific Lebanese Palestinian writer.

Since 2021, I’ve been making creative translations of poems from May’s debut, Fleurs de Rêve, which she published in 1911 under the pen name Isis Copia. Because of my Lebanese heritage—and for many other reasons—I feel a kinship with May. It’s a privilege to spend time with her mind and heart via her writing.

On the Train ~ a translation of “Abord” by May Ziadeh ~ poets.org

3 Poems ~ translations of poems by May Ziadeh ~ The Los Angeles Review

Goodbye, Lebanon ~ a translation of “Adieu” by May Ziadeh ~ Virginia’s Sisters

Twilight ~ a translation of “Crepescule” by May Ziadeh ~ Diode

Goodbye, Lebanon ~ a translation of “Adieu” by May Ziadeh ~ Asymptote

The Star-King of two worlds, Earth and firmament,

sifts gold dust over your skin…