Poetry Corner

Is Spring really here, or is it only a dream?

Since I learned how to smile, I’ve waited for Spring.

Through thirty years of vagabond life,

I’ve heard Spring would free my shackled heart.

I know Spring rushes once it’s come

with its liqueurs to fill souls to brimming.

But oh what wretched, endless grief

this strange and frigid Spring imparts!

Spring sometimes idles as it comes,

then runs with no promise of returning.

Still, I pray and nourish faith

that Spring will return, smiles will set root.

I drink to Spring in these darkest times;

I chant my rhymes of hopeless waiting.

Spring, do you know? Oh what dreams I waste

on the buds of Love and Joy you’ve lost!

(Silver Spring, Jan. 23, 1981)

Vinh Liem