An Interview

I am deeply grateful to Shakir Yaqoobi, a young Afghan journalist who interviewed me and posed numerous questions about my thoughts and writings.

Latifi says:

Environmental challenges have significantly impacted me, presenting ongoing difficulties at every stage. Afghan society has historically been troubled, with many opportunists and sexual harassers behind every free woman. Within the home, male behaviour towards women has often been violent and controlling, making these issues some of the most pressing concerns in life.

Although she has been conscious since adolescence, she has spent many years under her husband's domination with unquestioning obedience. She adds, "Much like in Afghan society, sexual harassment appears in various forms and manners; it is essential for each of us to stay vigilant, prevent it, and act with resolve to avoid becoming someone's object." Her ongoing struggle to safeguard herself from violence and sexual harassment stems from that conviction.

 Latifi explains that her passion for literature inspires her: "My love for the art of literature motivates me. Since this motivation spans a wide range of life, it also gives me more energy to achieve my goals and helps me to persevere on my path, dedicating significant time, energy, and focus."

She adheres to the Romantic style, emphasising human emotional qualities. She says: "In this school, feelings are essential for the sake of feeling and emotions for the sake of emotions." By adopting this style, I focus on my dreams and thoughts rather than social and traditional norms, acting according to my feelings and mind. I use words and phrases to depict mysterious and imaginative spaces, capturing every aspect of life—its movement and colours.

 Latifi has published two collections of Persian poetry so far, titled "Swallows" and "Wild Honey." She is also interested in writing English poems and short stories, and her third collection, titled "The Apple Orchard," was published in the United States.

"I have many poems and a few short stories to publish, and I am still searching for a prominent publisher in the United States. I hope to complete this challenging and valuable task soon."

Latifi, while honouring the women of the country, states, "As the drive to recognise and empower women burns brightly, we still struggle to assist the vulnerable and oppressed in society. As an advocate for justice for people (both men and women), animals, and the environment, I am daily aware of the injustices, oppression, imprisonment, and mental anguish faced by young men and women nationwide. I contribute through monthly donations to international charities and express my thoughts and feelings through poetry and stories, supporting human dignity and the worth of nature and animals. I believe everyone has a duty to make this world better; even small steps toward positive change can make a difference."