Poetic Poems

I'm not really a poet, but for a class I take in high school, I was challenged to write a few pieces of poetry that came out to be pretty decent.

All work below is written by me.

There are still nightmares in my dreams

Mohammad Nazar Syed

 

There are still nightmares in my dreams,

In my dreams I seek what is right

What is right? An illusion it seems.

 

And slippery snow falls in my redeem,

It cannot fall for my might

There are still nightmares in my dreams.

 

The falling dust in statues gleam,

Rolling stones are in my sight

What is right? An illusion it seems.

 

The moon looks weary, turning green,

Flying closer towards the kites

There are still nightmares in my dreams.

 

Why love is harder than it seems,

In little pockets of despite

What is right? An illusion it seems.

 

This devil, this monster, this horrible fiend,

I might sleep on it in the night

There are still nightmares in my dreams,

What is right? An illusion it seems.

-

 

Forever’s Touch

Mohammad Nazar Syed

 

And I’d give up forever to touch you

My touch is the only thing that will heal

Our fingers intertwined is my virtue

With lips containing secrets we conceal

 

When I kill myself from the inside out

Your soul saves me from my aching body

It’s cold on the surface of my hideout

Lighting the fire inside is my hobby

 

And while you asked me what I want this year

I stood staring down the deepest of eyes

My chalice filled with broken dreams and tears

Your soul has departed far in the skies

 

Tonight I reach you, or I’m almost there

Sinking further in this sea of despair

Twitter: @ItsNazar
Instagram: @ItsNazar96
 

The Cornered Tiger

"Nobody can achieve greatness until they crush the idols of infedelity and fear that are present inside of them." - Imran Khan

Some 22 odd years ago, during a decisive world cup match against Australia in 1992, Imran Khan came out for the toss wearing a shirt that had the picture of a tiger about to pounce. After being questioned on it he replied, “I want my team to play like a cornered tiger, when it’s at its best.” Today, almost 22 years later, Imran Khan comes out of his home away from home in a little container in the heart of Islamabad and looks around only to find his team of supporters as cornered as never before.

Tahir Ul Qadri has just announced the end of his sit-ins that lasted a record of 70 days. Mr. Qadri and Imran Khan had an undocumented allegiance, which helped both of the two parties on their mission in Islamabad. Both came hand in hand when mentioned and they helped each other when one was about to fall. One cannot forget the commitment of Mr. Qadri’s followers on the night of the dreadful shelling’s where Imran Khan’s supporters were nowhere to be seen, yet Mr. Qadri’s supporters guarded the two containers with their lives. One cannot also forgive the massacre done by the ruthless Punjab Police in Lahore to these supporters leaving 14 dead and 2 of them women. Mr. Qadri has paid his dues.

The current announcement sent shockwaves around Islamabad. Some held press conferences welcoming the end to the sit ins with sheepish smiles while others felt betrayed and downgraded. Yet Khan’s determination was not dented. He came out the next day appreciating Mr. Qadri’s efforts and thanking him for his assistance on this journey. He continued and said Mr. Qadri’s mission may have ended, but his mission is far from over. He promised to retrieve Nawaz Sharif’s resignation and so he will, even if he has to wait his whole life. He reiterated the promise he made to the masses and said that he has never bowed down from a commitment and he never will.

The question arises, why is Imran Khan so determined? The immediate answer that the cynics and the saints would give is that he’s power hungry. Right, because a person who was living a princely life would give all that up to make a career out of the least noble profession in the country. Every day since the past 2 and half months, Imran Khan comes out from atop his container and speaks to the masses. Every day, his determination grows stronger and stronger as he feeds off motivation from the crowds and the massive congregations that come to see him at his rallies. He absorbs their pain and damage, combines it with his experience, and stands taller every day.

He is determined because he is the cornered tiger. He is the lone wolf amongst hyenas and coyotes. He is the silver lining amongst dark thick clouds of destruction. And he knows it. He knows that a tiger pounces the strongest when it’s cornered, its back against the wall and no way to go except forward. With Mr. Qadri’s farewell, Khan has rejuvenated himself. He has gained the composure and the stamina needed to fight the battle he has been fighting since the inception of his party. The contraries think otherwise and so be it. In a democracy, everyone is entitled to his or her own opinions and that is fine, as long as one does not be naïve about it.

Although Mr. Qadri may have parted ways for now, his efforts are commendable. His departure may have been abrupt and uncalled for, but his mission stays with the people of the sit-in as they prepare themselves for harsher times ahead in the future. As for Imran Khan, he can still be spotted on top of his container with a wide smile, standing high in front of his people with spirits even higher.

Twitter: @itsNazar

Instagram: @itsNazar96

My Favourites: Dizzy Up The Girl (Album)

"If you find yourself perplexed, or perhaps in a quandry, remember that human growth is perpendicular. We grow up, and we grow forward. We just have to keep on growing steadily in both ways." - John Rzeznik

Almost 5 years ago, I stumbled upon a song in the trailer of a Jennifer Anniston movie sung by a band with a funny name. After 5 years, constant replays and two concerts that kept me awake for nights, I am not ashamed to say that I am a fan of The Goo Goo Dolls. Very few bands have the effect that the Goo Goo Dolls have had on me. John Rzeznik’s soulful lyrics still make my stomach churn and dilate the arteries in my hearts. Today, I take a step down memory lane and do a track buy track review of one of their best albums in my opinion; Dizzy Up The Girl.

Here we go!

Dizzy

Dizzy is the album opener. It starts with heavy guitars in the background as Johnny Rzeznik takes the mic and whispers lyrics about a girl that could be anyone’s guilty pleasure. As the verses end, its chorus turns into an anthem. This short song ends back with the chorus and leads up to one of the albums biggest hits. 

 

Slide

Some of you may have recognized my ‘here we go’ reference, as it is Johnny’s trademark dialogue before he plays this song live. This song has one of the most catchy opening guitar riffs that you have to sing aloud! Although joy and happiness pour out from every part of this song, it actually has a very dark underlying message about the catholic community and abortion. Hell, I would’ve never figured it out if I hadn’t heard it from Johnny himself. Still one of the most mesmerizing songs from them.

Broadway

A personal history and overview of lead singer Johnny Rzeznik’s life, this song echoes emotions. As Johnny has mentioned various times, this song is strictly about his hometown of Buffalo, but I somehow relate to it the same way, although never visiting Buffalo myself. That is the beauty of this song, it’s so personal, yet so impersonal, it’s for everybody.

January Friend

The first Robby Takac song on the record and does it resonate his amazing talents. For some, Robby’s voice is a little too raspy and hoarse, but on this track, it fits perfectly and is cohesive with the rest of the album. A powerful rock tune with a so far powerful album.

Black Balloon

If I had a top 10 Goo Goo Dolls songs list, this would totally be in the top five. As melancholic as this song is, it packs a powerful punch with its message of fighting against addiction and human compulsion. Although this song is specifically written for someone facing a heroin addiction, this song is so much more than that. With a melody that haunts you long after you’ve finished it, Black Balloon is one of the gems of this album.

 

Bulletproof

Ok I think this song is one of the few weaklings in the record. With such a powerful opening guitar riff, the song fell flat on its face as the verses and chorus rolled in. The Goos could have turned this into an amazing rock track but I think it lacked substance.

Amigone

Another Robby treat! Robby and Johnny’s lyrics are distinct because Robby is more literal and Johnny is more metaphorical and this is a perfect example. Robby should play this live again; it would really be a crowd.

All Eyes On Me

This song is one of the few tracks in the history of the band that gives the opportunity to the drummer to open up and be free. The climax of this song turns into a brilliant drum solo by ex-Goo member Mike Malinin. Boy is it a delight to listen to, with Johnny’s mesmerizing lyrics, this track is a for sure repeat.

Full Forever

This song is my must listen to on a full moon’s night. The lyrics just resonate so perfectly. Although I think the heaviness of the chorus might be reduced a little, but this song is certainly worth a listen.

Acoustic # 3

I have no hesitance in saying that this is the best-unknown Goo Goo Dolls song ever. I didn’t hear of this song 2 years after I got into the band. This song was just hiding under an album full of rock tunes. Although unfinished, I don’t think any of the songs on this album has plucked on my heartstrings as this one. Two minutes of pure ecstasy.

Iris

As though Acoustic # 3 was a build up to this epic masterpiece. What can I say about this song? So hauntingly beautiful. It stays with you forever. I have probably raped the replay button on this song, but every time I hear it, I catch something new in it. That my friends, is the sign of a good song. It definitely deserved the Grammy in 1999. Damn you Celine Dion.

Extra Pale

Another weakling of the album for me. Robby’s voice didn’t click for me here and the melody to the song just felt off. I think this song could have been stripped out and the album wouldn’t have been any different. It just didn’t connect for me.

Hate This Place

The perfect album closer. The song's opening lyrics are ‘gone away,’ giving a clear-cut idea of where this is heading. Flawless ending for an album of this caliber. The lyrics again are top notch with that polished pop-rock sound the Goos are well known for and they certainly capitalized on it for this remarkable finale.

This album opened doors for the Goos and for me as an avid listener. It certainly helped me along the way and there have been times I would just go back to these tracks to vent off negative feelings. It’s safe to say that this album taught me about my first romance and even though I first heard it nearly 11 years after its release, it gave me the same sensation that it would have given a teenager in the 90s.

4.5/5 

Peace!

Twitter: @itsNazar

Instagram: @itsnazar96

Fantastic Fincher with Gratifying Gone Girl

“The book is a film that takes place in the mind of the reader. That's why we go to movies and say, "Oh, the book is better.”  - Paul Coehlo

As I sat munching on popcorn and taking an occasional sip from my coke glass, I had a flashback. A flashback of all the Fincher movies that have wowed me over the years. With the amazing end to Seven to Fight Club’s even more ultra-dramatic finish, Fincher has made my jaw drop on a number of occasions. So to say Gone Girl had high expectations would be an understatement. My thoughts were taking their toll when the screen in front of me displayed the initial trailers and the Fincher sensation had begun.

And to no one’s surprise, Gone Girl delivered. If you’re familiar with any of David Fincher’s films, you’ll know his movies are meticulously crafted and brilliant looking movies. So when the opening credits started to show, I already felt the dark and shadowy tone of the movie that told me something wasn’t right. As the movie played on, my jaw dropped on numerous occasions as the film twisted and turned and moved forward with great pace. And by the time the end credits were rolling, I was just awestruck staring at Fincher’s name as he yet again pulled a spectacular one on us.

This movie has so many ups. Starting from the acting, Affleck was on top of his game from the get go. He seemed mysterious and guarded and something just didn’t seem right with this fellow. On numerous occasions, Affleck stole the scenes and his emotions were so on point that I actually started hating this guy.

But the real surprise came from Rosamund Pike. Where was she all these years?! The only thing I knew prior to this movie about Pikes was that once upon a time she was a Bond girl, and that’s all the info I knew. But man does she pack a punch in this one. My predictions, Pikes will definitely be nominated if not win Best Actress this year at the Academy’s. If she’s not nominated, my little attachment with The Oscars will be diminished forever until they hand Leo his rightful Oscar.

The supporting actors were great as well. Neil Patrick Harris was creepy and that’s a good thing because that means he did a good job. The movie is two and a half hours long but you know a movie is amazing if you don’t feel a thing. I heard that the end was quite different from the book. Because I haven’t read it, I can’t really comment on that but the end to this movie was perfect for me and it gelled perfectly with the rest of the film.

Although the musical score to this movie was amazing, at points the audio was hard to hear, specifically the first few minutes. It got better as the movie progressed though. But at this point, I’m just nitpicking and trying to found faults to a nearly flawless film.

As the end credits started rolling, I looked at my friend who was watching his debut Fincher flick and he looked at me dumbfounded as I looked at him the same way. We walked out of the theatre without saying a word to each other and it was minutes before we spoke. The first words were indeed, “What just happened.” I said to him, “That’s Fincher for you.”

8.5/10

Peace!

Twitter: @itsNazar

Instagram: @itsNazar96

 

Bill Maher's Problem

"How 'bout more than a billion people, who aren't fanatical, who dont want to punish people, who just want to go to the store buy some sandwiches and pray 5 times a day." - Ben Affleck

I usually don't take my time out to discuss things as an uproar against Islam (again). Simply, because people like Bill Maher are not worth the time and effort to be debated about as long as they give factual and logical arguments with their claims. They have no affect on my life and I will continue to practice my religion as I want to. But notice how I said 'factual and logical' and not 'biased and absurd.’ When someone comes out with a sweeping statement, or in this case a sweeping late night talk show, my mind produces a few counter arguments that I feel I should ink out.

Bill Maher is an atheist and/or an agnostic. I actually don’t care what he is. It means nothing to me as a person if he believes in religion or not. What bothers me are his radical views on religion, specifically Islam. He talked about Female Genital Mutilation and how it’s an Islamic practice and how wrong it is, making a wider generalization statement against all Muslims and referring to the religion as, “the mafia, that will f--king kill you if you say the wrong thing, draw the wrong picture or write the wrong book.” Now, I have a few issues with that.

As Reza Aslan has already pointed out, FGM is not an Islamic activity, rather than an African cultural practice that happens to be practiced in Islamic states in Africa. But wait, there’s more. As already stated by Aslan, Eritrea and Ethiopia are largely Christian countries with more than 70% FMG. Also, of the 29 targeted UNICEF countries that exercise FMG, 14 of them are Christian majority countries. Can we suddenly draw a sweeping statement that Christianity promotes FMG? Of course not, that would be juvenile.

This is exactly what Mr. Maher has done. I understand in a free country you’re allowed to say what you want and the whole ‘Free Will’ business is essential but is there a line that has to be drawn between free speech and nonsense talk? Can you suddenly generalize and call 1.6 billion people terrorists? Mr. Maher in the past has been ‘alarmed’ about the most used name for babies in Great Britain is Mohammad. He said in his talk show that he fears Muslims will rule the western world in some 300 years and he hopes that it doesn’t make him a racist if he thinks that way. News flash, it does.

I humbly appreciate Ben Affleck trying his best to protect Islam on Bill’s talk show while he was promoting his new thriller Gone Girl, but has Maher hit a new low by discussing Islam without having Muslims on the panel at all? It fails to seep through my hollow brain the thought of discussing a religion without its ambassadors there to defend it. It just doesn’t make sense. Islam is a religion open to debate as long as there is a defense there as well. You cannot expect a Hollywood movie star to defend a religion he barely knows anything about albeit he did a good job.

The problem with Maher is that he thinks his liberal views are the liberal views period. He has embedded in his mind that Islam is a religion of violence and that the only way to discuss it is to defame it. I understand you have issues with Islam Mr. Maher, but next time please do your homework. You only look like a kid who’s out of insults so he slanders the other kids mother. You’ve stooped too low Bill.

 

Twitter: @itsNazar

Instagram: @itsNazar96



Interstellar!

"Everything I learned, I learned from movies." - Audrey Hepburn

There are bad movies. There are average movies. There are good movies. Then, there are Christopher Nolan movies! In this day and age where the directors are now the stars of the movies, Nolan has surely created a name for himself. Starting with a low budget movie like the Following, Nolan and his brother got their first break with Momento and they've never looked back. Creating thrillers after thrillers that just mind screwed the audience, its no wonder Nolan has developed into being one of the greatest directors in the modern film making era. And now, after 2 years since his last project, he's back with Interstellar.

Interstellar is a sci-fi movie about human survival. After the humans took a large dump on Earth, its habitable environment is questionanble and the entire human race is at stake. So McConaughey and company go on a voyage into space to search for a planet that will be accustomed to our needs and thus we have our movie.

One thing Nolan does brilliantly is disguise his films in the trailer. He just gives enough so that we as the audience get a taste of what he's offering and ask for more by getting our buts in the seats at the cinemas. Interstellar is no different. The third trailer came out just recently and I know just as much as I did when I watched the first trailer. The trailer is so eerie and melancholic, I can already see where this movie is heading. With another fantastic score by Hans Zimmer, the environement and the setting really makes you believe you're setting out on a journey with these guys. I can tell you one thing for a fact, Interstellar is going to be one good looking movie. I mean that shot of Saturn and it's rings is just breath taking!

I have not an inch of doubt about the acting from the actors in this movie. Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain to name a few are starring in this movie. McConaughey just bagged an Oscar recently and he will be back to sustain his place in the Academy. From what I've seen in the trailers, I think he's heading in the right direction already. Man this guy really can really jerk a tear in your eye.

I read in an interview somewhere that said this movie is claimes to be Nolan's best work yet. With hits like Inception, The Dark Knight Trilogy and fan favourite the Prestige, thats quite a statement to make. But again, I'm yet to see a bad Christopher Nolan movie so I think the hype Interstellar is getting is justified.

With time warps, wormholes and exploring new planets, Interstellar might just be the best movie of the year. I say that without hesitation. Nolan is my one of my favourite directors of all time and I have a lot of expectations for Interstellar. Im all set to expect an Inception type end that will screw my mind forever. November 7th can't come any faster but the top keeps spinning..

Peace!

 Twitter: @itsNazar

Instagram: @itsNazar96