Notes About The Poem

This poem is inspired by ancient Chinese lyric poetry, which I immensely admire.

A Shy Encounter in the Orchard

Lady Li’s pure, gentle name means the white plum flower;
her slight, slender, moving form holds a quiet power.
When I watch her lost in thoughts at the crimson dawning,
she sits resting on a bench—like a swan in longing.

As she’s moving, her soft robe silently is rustling;
bracelets on her slender wrists from afar are sparkling.
All splendid jewels made of jade glisten in the moonlight;
I plead heaven to send help: stay for a while, mute night!

We talk about the faint moon, about silent gladness;
a sweet child is in Li’s smile, and a touch of sadness.
Syllables she slowly says, awaken my dreaming;
her amazing, pleasant voice is a balm, a gleaming.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2026

Poem

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