You, who came, beside the sidewalk,
Upon a grove of small purple flowers.
You who could not bear the loss of things,
Nor the absence of beloved folk.
Who thought to take the bodies, whole,
Petals, leaves, and pollen-flesh.
Even you, could not bear to cull
The beauty from the stem.
Huzaifa Malik is a Pakistani-American poet and writer raised across multiple countries. He is studying comparative literature at The Pennsylvania State University but is also still trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. He enjoys writing and sharing poetry that presents his emotions honestly and fully, exploring themes of love and immigrant identity. His favorite poets include Agha Shahid Ali and Li-Young Lee. His work is also forthcoming in Kalliope.