MY QUEST

 

Translated by the author from his Vietnamese "Tìm"

published in his collection of poems "Cơn Ác-Mộng" 

(The Nightmare) - Alameda: Xây-Dựng, 1998.

 

 

You asked me, “Whom are you looking for

While plenty are ready within your door?”

− Oh, even the most insatiable dictator

For whom the whole world is forced to cater

Having the power to people’s lives sacrifice

Can hardly find a shadow of paradise!

 

You asked me, “What are you searching for

Since everything is available to you in store?”

− Oh, my hands with five fingers each

Only hold a small quantity they can reach

But when unfolded have nothing to remain!

How to grasp mysteries in Heaven’s domain?

 

− Now, my sweetheart, could you realize?

I do not quest for my nature with my eyes!

As a color without a hue, tone without value,

A mute noise, silent voice, invisible statue,

I have been after you all over since the prime,

I have been seeking my true Self, all lifetime!

 

                                      THANH-THANH