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