Promoting Peace Through Literature : Naomi Shihab Nye

Naomi Shihab Nye is the first author that we’re looking at this semester. Her book of poetry “14 Varieties of Gazelle” is not only inspirational, but it allows the reader to take a deeper look into the value and need to appreciate family. In her writing Nye creates a sense of understanding, and making it aware that change starts within the individual. The poems in “14 Varieties of Gazelle” allow readers to think deeper, and go beyond the text; it pushes us, as readers, to understand not only the people around us, but the situations that life hurls us in. While reading, you get a sense of Nye’s character, and can see that she has a non-violent outlook on life, and suggests that we promote that demeanor as well. Throughout a lot of her poems there is sense of calmness, and a tone promoting generosity versus hatred. When reading In her writings Nye encourages us to connect to other people and nations, with peace and harmony leading the way.