It Is Abnormal

It Is Abnormal To Ban Poetry is a poetic reflection on society in the wake of the pandemic. Dara Kalima takes a micro look at macro phenomena, questioning the pursuit of the status quo and whether it ever truly existed. Through the lens of an African American woman, she reveals that "normal" has always been an illusion. Unapologetic and fearless, Kalima confronts painful truths, tackling topics such as sexual assault, suicide, and the systemic violence against her people. With poignant verse, she weaves together the past and present, exposing an ugly history that continues to unfold. The title itself is a direct response to the rising wave of censorship in a nation founded on free speech. Dara Kalima does what poets do best-documenting the times and amplifying the inconvenient truths many would rather ignore. This is not poetry for the faint of heart. Read along if you dare.