Learn Persian Through Poetry

I grew up as a Jewish kid in a Kansas suburb after my family moved. I felt like an outsider, but I remember hanging out at a book store and picking up a book on Persian history. I was fascinated with it. One section discussed the legacy of Cyrus the Great and his treatment of minorities within his empire. He is the only non-Jew in the Jewish bible to be called an "anointed one." And I was very impressed with the Persian influence on mathematics, astronomy, and medicine.

Now as a surgical resident I have limited time to spare on hobbies. However, through your podcast I was inspired to pursue learning Persian because your team has made it so accessible. I think your poetry section is very innovative. I love that now I can appreciate the prose, and by extension, Iranian culture, on a deeper level. Thanks a lot!

Over the past 4 years, I've been trying to learn and understand Farsi but have felt like I've not made much progress past the basics.

This week's lessons, where you learn most of the poem, have helped me build my confidence with speaking. By taking the time to memorize each line I've been able to improve my pronunciation and the rhythm of the poetry makes it so much easier to memorize and recall.

The writing course is also brilliant - I had the satisfaction of being able to decipher labels my boyfriend's mum wrote on food which she made when she visited us from Iran. I've also been able to navigate the Manoto website and watch some بفرمایید شام.

I love the community created by Chai and conversation! As someone who grew up speaking Farsi at home with my family, it was a challenge maintaining the skills into adulthood.

Listening to the Poetry lessons has brought me joy during the pandemic and a deeper connection to my roots. I never thought I would be able to recite persian poetry, but the way Leyla brings the poems to life with podcast guests makes it not only interesting & entertaining but also easier to make a connection with the story and poet. Each line is broken down and written in Farsi and English which also helps tremendously! I was able to surprise my parents who teared up when I recited some of their favorite poems. Can't wait to learn more!

Now I have a young son and husband who are beginning to learn. So grateful for this community and all the effort Leyla and her team put into the lessons.