Longan fragrance

On the narrow streets, I paused when I came across old longan trees in full bloom, their golden blossoms seemingly imbued with the marks of time. The fragrance of longan wafted through the small alleys, lingering on the eaves, gentle yet captivating. It was like an invitation for travelers to quietly observe and feel the gentle rhythm of the mountain town amidst the hustle and bustle.

The ancient longan trees still stand there, silent and resilient amidst the vicissitudes of time. Their rough bark, their gnarled roots clinging deep to the earth, and their lush green foliage providing shade for a corner of the street. Season after season, they quietly bid farewell to the passing years, and then, when April arrives, their pale yellow blossoms burst open, awakening a part of memory that seemed to have been dormant. The tiny petals flutter in the gentle breeze, like soft silk ribbons falling through the air, possessing a humble yet captivating beauty.

Not as vibrant as the flamboyant flame tree, nor as intensely fragrant as the milk flower, the longan flower emits a gentle, graceful scent, quietly captivating hearts with its simplicity and nostalgic charm.

An ancient longan tree at the corner of Wừu and Võ Thị Sáu streets, Pleiku City. **Photo: QT**

Besides beautifying the streets, the longan blossoms also bring a lingering fragrance, evoking countless memories of the past. When the flowers bloom, swarms of bees return, diligently collecting nectar, creating a harmonious natural scene. The fragrance of longan not only adds a touch of romance to Pleiku's landscape but also bestows upon it drops of exquisite, sweet honey.

Every morning, as the mist still clings to the leaves, the fragrance of longan blossoms spreads through the air on the cool breeze, mingling with the rich aroma of coffee emanating from the small roadside cafes. In that moment, nature and the city seem to intertwine, creating a harmonious symphony of emotions. The delicate scent of longan, the warm aroma of coffee, all blend in the stillness of the early morning, as if beckoning passersby, inviting them to slow down and listen to the rhythm of the mountain town. That scent is like a familiar memory, transporting people back to bygone but peaceful times.

Taking a sip of warm coffee, I listened to the stories of the locals. Through their sincere accounts, I understood that the ancient longan trees were not merely shade trees along the roadside, but silent witnesses of time, preserving within them the ups and downs of this mountain town. In those days, Pleiku wasn't as bustling as it is now; the lush green longan orchards, laden with fruit, were once a source of joy for countless generations.

As time passed and the city expanded, the once-famous longan orchards gradually gave way to wide roads and modern buildings. Yet, a few old longan trees still stand there, silently enduring the hustle and bustle of the city. And despite all the changes, every April, the flowers still release their gentle fragrance in the breeze, like a whisper from the past, evoking a part of the memories deeply etched in the hearts of the people of Pleiku – simple yet imbued with love.

There are scents that, once imprinted in memory, become an indispensable part of the soul. The fragrance of longan blossoms in Pleiku is one such example. Anyone who has once been immersed in that scent will surely never forget it. They look forward to the moment of inhaling the pure fragrance, sipping a hot cup of coffee, and quietly watching the pale yellow blossoms gently swaying in the early morning sun. And so, the longan blossoms in April are not only a sign of the changing seasons, but also a memorable moment in the hearts of those who love Pleiku, who love its simple yet emotionally rich things.

Source: https://baogialai.com.vn/huong-nhan-post319882.html