Mehran Hashemi, writing under the pen name Hush M E, is a poet whose evocative free-verse poetry explores the complexities of love, loss, resilience, and the fleeting nature of human emotions. Born and based in Tehran, Iran, Mehran is the author of multiple poetry collections, including Light Needs Darkness to Shine, Drinking Ink, Caged Hope, and Homeless Thoughts.
His work resonates with readers around the world, blending raw emotion with profound reflections on the human experience. Featured in international anthologies and literary magazines, Mehran's poetry speaks to those seeking meaning in moments of vulnerability and strength.
Through his writing, Mehran continues to inspire with his ability to find beauty in imperfection and hope in despair, offering a voice for those navigating life's most challenging moments.
Caged Hope is the second poetry collection by this poet that I’ve had the absolute honour of reading—and once again, I’m left breathless by the raw emotion and powerful storytelling etched into every line.
This mini collection is a tapestry of revolutionary verses that confront the harrowing injustices faced by the poet’s homeland. With devastating honesty, the poems expose the weight of oppression, especially the unspeakable suffering endured by women. Yet even amid the darkest depictions of pain, fear, and loss, the author offers us a single, unwavering thread—hope.
The writing is heart-wrenching, emotive, and unflinchingly honest. There is no attempt to soften the truth. Each poem speaks with clarity and conviction, painting a haunting yet vital portrait of lived trauma and endurance. And still, within the grief, there is resistance. The poet’s voice becomes a vessel for his people’s silenced cries, a rebellion woven in metaphor, and a sanctuary of empathy for those who read.
What makes this collection especially moving is the sense of hope—not as a fragile, flickering thing, but as a defiant force. It’s the kind of hope that refuses to be caged by tyranny or erased by cruelty. It gives these poems their wings—lifting them from the page and into the hearts of readers around the world.
Caged Hope is not simply a poetry collection. It is a call to awareness, a literary witness to injustice, and a deeply personal offering of truth. It challenges, it enlightens, and it stays with you long after the final stanza.
Mehran Hashemi’s powerful and moving collection of poetry provides an insightful look into the socio-political struggles of his homeland, particularly focusing on the plight of women and the pervasive issues they face.
His language is vivid and evocative, capturing the pain, resilience, and hope of his people. This thought-provoking read serves as a resounding cry for change.
Caged hope is a compact book. Only 57 pages. But it cares a strong message. I found it painful to read, because there is nothing I can do to change the situation. This book is about injustice towards women. About suffering of the Iranian people during this time of authoritarian regim. It's an eye opener for someone who lives outside Iran.
The author sent me the book for a review, Im delightful he did this book is not long but its effect will remain with you for a long time I'm sorry for the unfair things happening in Iran Their women deserve to live better Thank you