Journal

Thoughts, reflections, and stories from the writing life. A glimpse into the creative process and the world that inspires my work.

Featured

Coexistence, Tolerance and Religious Diversity in Iranian Thought

October 24, 202610 min read

Part one: a look at tolerance of religious difference in ancient Iran, from the Achaemenids to the Sasanians, drawing on the Bible, the Behistun inscription and the history of Manichaeism.

Writing

A Peace to End All Peace

A summary of David Fromkin's book on the dismantling of the Ottoman Empire and the partition of the Middle East in the First World War.

Oct 245 min

Writing

Iran: A Short-Term Society

A summary of Homa Katouzian's book "Iran: A Short-Term Society": why do fundamental changes in Iran not last?

Oct 247 min

Long Live Iran

Poem of the Homeland

A Persian poem in praise of the homeland, its history, poets and people.

Oct 245 min

Travel

Journeys in Malaysia

One of the most memorable and beautiful events of my life: from Kuala Lumpur to Cherating's fireflies, Redang's coral reefs, Penang and Langkawi.

Oct 2114 min

Personal

Our Love Has Arrived, Graced with Natural Charm

It was a night to remember, in the humble parking lot of an apartment complex in Gheytarieh—a night without headlines, lights, or grandeur. Yet the magical voice of Hengameh Akhavan, echoed by women who had left behind the duties of home and work, filled the air with a beauty stronger than any concert hall. Her simple blouse, now marked with the colors of lipstick and kohl, remained as a living testament—the signature of love and passion that springs only from the hearts of this land’s women.

Sep 256 min