Two Suitcases - Moniza Alvi

I pack two suitcases,
one for myself
and one for my shadow
my faithful companion

Often it’s the two of us –
it’s better that way.

But when I sleep my shadow
completely disappears.
It’s a troubled time.
I just hope the moon is looking out for me.

Moniza Alvi was born in Pakistan. She is an ex-school teacher, freelance writer and a tutor.


Thank you to Refugees & The Arts Initiative for their help and permission to use poetry from the “Poet Tree Project” a collaboration between Refugees & The Arts Initiative and the London Borough of Newham. The project hopes to enrich communities and widen understanding about different cultures through poetry and literature.

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