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I returned in March 2020 from a very special, very personal three-week journey to Lahore, the town of my birth. I think of it as a coda, closing a circle, a swan song and I want to share it. (Broadcast on WPKN radio, April 29, 2020 and produced by Tony Ernst.)
Born to German Jewish refugee physicians in Lahore (now Pakistan, then British India) Hazel has lived, studied and worked in many places–India, England, Australia, Israel and the United States. She makes her home in the woods of the eastern end of Long Island, New York where she produces the art of leafages, the radio sounds of Tidings and writes about growing up Jewish in Lahore. Read more about Hazel…
Leafages by Hazel Kahan are made from real leaves, vines and tendrils interwoven with calligraphy, decorative pen and ink flourishes and imaginary Latin botanical names. Leafages contain a philosophical or inspirational thought, quotation or verse from sages, poets or religious texts. Some leafages are specially created for an individual, a couple or a family with words or leaves reflecting their personal narrative. They are available on the Leafages shop on Etsy although the supply is low right now, all my energies having been absorbed by the book I’ve been writing. Do come back soon when the shop will be full of new leafage abundance or contact me.
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I need to listen again (actually wish there was a transcript!) as there are such lessons and levels contained within this time & travelogue: Back to Lahore Again, via 5 Lawrence Road. Captured subjectively and objectively, clearly lived history reflected in those present shared moments richly widening and extending into an open welcoming future – one all humanity could gain from — if only we would. Hazel speaks colorfully and affectionately of place and people — faraway, foreign and deeply familiar. Knowing how blessed she was through all of her returns, as she is today — mother and grandmother — at peace as the daughter of two highly beloved and respected doctors in a once alien land that is forever home.
Fascinating, Hazel. I’m a writer. My friend Lea Kendall told me about your memoir. Can’t wait to read it. My parnter and I live on the East End of Long Island. I believe we met more than a decade ago as we left to care for her parents in Canada but we’re back.
So looking forward to your story!! All the very best, Melanie
Thank you very much for your comment and welcome back to the East End. I hope you enjoy the memoir. Do get in touch if you have questions or comments or both!
Hazel