doriszheku

Key Terms

Key Terms Back home – a place you never return, even if you visit; no longer a geographic location but a before Here – always where you immigrated; in relation to family’ story, the United States of America Gjuhe nenes – mother tongue; the language that comes out when you’re cursing because you forget your keysContinue reading “Key Terms”

Interview in Photos

Can you describe this photo for me? I was supposed to grow my hair long because my sister had long hair and they wanted me to be more like her after she died. They sent me to school for sewing because I wasn’t allowed to go in a public school. That’s why I don’t likeContinue reading “Interview in Photos”

Throw salt in the fire

What do Albanians have to be afraid of? (besides speaking, eating, breathing, witnessing) Their superstitions? (bad luck, evil eyes, curses) Their government? (communist, socialist, democratic, all corrupt, all holding on to power) Their family? (honor costs) Instability? (the only thing we know is a city of stone) Anarchy? (i thought this is what it wasContinue reading “Throw salt in the fire”

The Boat

At first, They didn’t think we were people They heard savages were coming to their shores And they were scared We swam to the shore because there was nowhere else to go. When they realized, we were, in fact people they fed us, clothed, befriended us It was a time Before they sent us toContinue reading “The Boat”

Silvester Interview Transcript

I was afforded the opportunity to speak with my older brother about his memories of the anarchy that ensued during the year I was born and that my mom left for America. He shares details about his time spent with my dad and grandmother in mother’s absence and his feelings on leaving Albania. Do youContinue reading “Silvester Interview Transcript”

Koli Interview Transcript

I called my father, Sokol Zheku, while he was on the road driving an eighteen wheeler. We discussed history and his personal story. Our conversation was hours long so I including a 30 minute segment in this transcript. He was like a well of knowledge for this project. Where are you? Koli: Where am I?Continue reading “Koli Interview Transcript”

Joni Interview Transcript

How old were you when you came to America? I was 6 at the time. Do you remember what you thought at the time? (like your perceptions of America, why you were leaving Albania, why your family was separated) I was excited. A whole new world to discover and I wasn’t disappointed in this regard.EvenContinue reading “Joni Interview Transcript”