Marya Danish: A Poetess in Bloom
By Dr Ahmed S. Khan
Chicago, IL
Marya Danish is a gifted grade eight student from Doha, Qatar. She is an emerging poetess with a unique talent for giving life to words. With simple rhythms and delightful illustrations, Marya opens doors to new worlds — allowing kids to discover the power of words — emotions, and the very act of creativity. She writes poems that make learning and reading exciting for children of all ages.
With a passion for writing, she explores a wide spectrum of topics in her poetry that resonate with her audience. She has actively participated in numerous events, showcasing her creativity and love for writing, and in the process earned many awards. The following collection of her poems shows her poetic acumen.
Expo 2023, Doha, Qatar
From climate change to pollution,
This all needs a solution.
But don't you fear,
With the help of the Doha Expo, this will all disappear.
Every nationality is welcome,
Including people from Belgium.
Come notice your flag,
And go to your friends to brag.
Feel more knowledgeable and educated,
The Expo is really well decorated.
With lots of bright colors,
There are many things to discover.
The Expo is about culture, sustainability, and innovations,
Come and make a reservation.
Let's not put aside the future-like technology,
And of course some biology!
The expedition is for everyone to see,
You don't require a degree.
This aims to inspire and inform people,
About all the harm we're causing to the Earth that should be Illegal.
Coming up with new solutions,
Let's all join and make some contributions.
Visit the future,
Instead of seeing it on a computer.
The Qatar Expo 2023, also known as the World Horticultural Expo, was held in Doha with the theme "Green Desert, Better Environment." It focused on sustainability and innovation, showcasing solutions for creating green spaces in arid regions. The event featured garden exhibits, advanced technologies, and educational programs on environmental conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture, bringing together global participants to promote a greener future. (Source: www.gord.qa , www.dohaexpo2023.gov.qa/en/ )
The Divine Month
My eyes were ajar, so eager and bright,
I felt a connection with my God that night.
In the heavenly month of purification and worship, I shun wrong ways, like back-biting and gossip.
This mystic event undefiles me and strikes out all my sins,
I recite and pray for all my parents, friends, and siblings.
After a long, patient day of prayer and worship, I break my fast with dates and water’s sip.
And at last, while a blissful Eid is on its way,
I keep solemnly to my God, who I won’t disobey.
About the Poem: As a grade 6 student, Marya had the privilege of participating in a poetry competition featuring “Ramadan,” organized by the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), Doha, Qatar. Her poem was awarded third place — standing out among numerous submissions from students across Qatar.
Music to her Ears
Do you hear the rustic rhythm prance?
The opera plays,
We observe in advance,
They, who play so flawlessly, us they amaze.
The tune around me, I can hear,
A lovely sound, none can deny,
Something so enchanting, nothing more real,
So truly mesmerizing, yet hard to justify.
The flute, the oboe, the harp, and the violin,
Can’t forget the banjo, the cello, and the horn,
But my favorite is the clarinet just to begin,
Oh, they calm the souls, which were shattered and torn.
The ones who inspired many like me,
Beethoven, Mozart, Antonin, and Felix,
These musicians let trapped souls be free,
Playing so magical, like a Phoenix, so free.
Overall, music produces beauty and calmness,
Using musical instruments, vocals, or both,
I love all types of music, I promise,
Since then, the music industry has grown hugely.
About the Poem: As a grade 6 student, Marya wrote this poem for her school’s talent show. It was a meaningful opportunity to showcase her creativity and passion for writing. She was thrilled to be able to present it to the entire student group —sharing her words and emotions with her peers. This experience not only boosted her confidence but also strengthened her love for poetry and public speaking.
Two Divided Lands
On this very day, a subcontinent was split into 2 nations in 1947,
Hindus and Muslims had gotten their separate nations.
Although many Hindus denied and strongly disagreed,
The divide was forced with relentless speed.
The role of designing the border fell to Cyril Radcliffe,
A task so heavy, a decision made in a swift
Families and communities separated and split up,
In between the lines that were unexpectedly cut.
Punjab and Bengal where the border was cut through,
Millions displaced, unsure what to do.
Looted, killed and beaten,
Shattered hopes and hearts left weakened.
Unfortunately, one million didn’t make it to see their land,
Lost in chaos, dreams slipping from their hands.
Some Muslims found themselves in India, as a minority,
They felt unsafe and scared, as if without security.
We celebrate this day to honor our people’s past,
And cherish their legacies that will forever last.
About the Poem : Marya penned this poem as a heartfelt tribute to her beloved country — Pakistan— to honor its rich history and the sacrifices of the past. It is a reflection of the struggles, resilience, and triumphs that have shaped the nation, and a celebration of the spirit that defines its people. On this significant occasion of Pakistan’s National Day, Marya shares glimpses of the nation’s journey —from the trials of yesterday to the hopes of tomorrow — through the verses of this poem.
Winter, Whimsy Wonderland
The frosty, crisp blizzard hovered past me,
I stood there with my hot chocolate, smiling with glee.
They say winter is full of sadness and sorrow.
However, I hope this season won’t leave me tomorrow.
Snow has engulfed valleys, mountains to peaks,
My entire body turns numb, red to my cheeks.
The snowflakes sprinkle lightly on the ground,
Some in the shapes of squares, while others round.
My teeth chatter and vibrate,
By staying outside, enjoying until it’s too late.
Snow covers my lawn like a blanket,
All the snowmen must be enjoying in a banquet.
Some may feel desperate and lonely in winter,
But I love inviting people for dinner.
Laying with my blanket in bed,
I keep a lookout for Santa on his sled.
The sky turns dark blue like blueberries,
This season is so magical, with Elves, Santa and Fairies!
About the Poem: The poem highlights the beauty and joy of the winter season. It describes snowy landscapes, cozy moments with hot chocolate, and the happiness of sharing this time with others. Marya wrote it to show that winter — often seen as cold and lonely — can be magical and full of warmth, wonder, and simple pleasures.
Diffusion
Diffusion is when gas particles spread out
This is what this poem is about
from high concentration to low concentration
gas particles use acceleration.
Let's spray some perfume
around the room
and now let's assume
You’ll smell it first
The Smell will burst
then to the back it will go
to the person in the last row
All the gas particles do the same
They all together have the same aim.
Marya's journey as an emerging poetess is just beginning — her unique talent for breathing life into words is already evident. Her work is a testament to the transformative power of poetry, promising a bright future filled with inspiration and imagination.
