THE STATUE

There seemed to be of vexation a shade;

Melancholy through time seemed to accumulate.

To count the planets and stars I sat trying:

All couldn’t be seen, except sadness higher rising.

I felt that you took it all in your stride,

Putting on new gown to part with my love to decide.

Home returned I, and over slopped the wine,

Somewhat tipsy to get, what for to pine?

There  appeared to loom on the other bank

You became the idol awaiting the moon blank.

I stood to admire from this riverside, still,

Your eyes looked indifferent, far-away to chill.

You have turned into such a lifetime statue!

And I the artist to paint your image that much blue!

               Vietnamese poem by NGUYÊN PHƯƠNG

                English translation by THANH-THANH