Woman alone, living
in a tenement of enmity.
One room of back-biting
standpipe flowing strife.
Recall one dry Sunday
of no rice and peas no meat
how you boiled a handful
of fresh green thyme
As if poetry mattered
Poems that confront human challenges – an international selection.
The New Internationalist is an independent bi-monthly not-for-profit magazine that reports on action for global justice. We believe in putting people before profit, in climate justice, tax justice, equality, social responsibility and human rights for all.
Find us:
- Twitter: @newint_au
- Facebook: @newint.au
- Instagram: @newint_au
- Youtube: niaustraliashop
- Apple: App Store
- Android: Play Store
Contact us:
New Internationalist acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We acknowledge that these lands were stolen and sovereignty was never ceded. We pay our respects to Elders both past and present.
© Copyright New Internationalist 1973-2026. Except where otherwise noted, content on this site is licensed under Creative Commons.
Except where otherwise noted, images on this site are © the attributed photographer/illustrator or representative agency.