This is a short poem by journalist and poet Nguyen Hong Vinh, with simple yet vivid verses depicting the contrasting natural landscapes of the North, where five consecutive cold spells hit in a single month; and the South, where scorching heat blankets rice paddies, causing many fields to crack and dry up, vegetation to wither, and livestock to lack sustenance. In this context, a young couple in love are forced to miss their planned spring outing. However, despite the distance and their busy work schedules, they understand and support each other, overcoming difficulties and waiting for autumn to reunite and express their love. Their love, nurtured and continuing to be a beacon of hope and faith, shines brightly for these two young people...
We are pleased to present this poem:
AT BOTH ENDS OF ADVERSITY
It's hot and dry in here.
The rice paddies are cracked so deep you can fit your foot through them.
The cactus stem is withered and shriveled.
The sheep have no food left!
In the North, I face adversity.
Cold and endless cold
Thin clouds for a few days
The cold weather has returned!
Farmer's work
Always busy like a baby.
Keep the cows warm.
Then they covered the rice seedlings in the field...
We've missed the appointment three times.
Let's go on a spring outing together.
Why is fate so cruel?
Stealing our spring?!
Loneliness begets loneliness
But the stream of love still flows.
I've gotten used to waiting.
Loyalty and devotion are paramount!
Autumn will come.
Weather in both regions
The warp is shortened.
We'll meet again in the spring!
Early 2024
Nguyen Hong Vinh
Source
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