Early Spring, Light Rain

A new pairing of poems, in the ancient Chinese tradition. I have translated this quatrain from Han Yu, who lived in T'ang Dynasty China from 768 - 824, and paired it with my own verse.

EARLY SPRING, LIGHT RAIN

Heaven Street glistens in light drizzle,
and new grass shines in the distance.

Spring is always the best time of year,
when willow blossom mist fills the city.

                         -- Han Yu

 
THE FORCE OF NEW LIFE

Fresh grass, damp glistening light,
all along the street, signs of spring.

New willow blossoms everywhere,
symbols of hope for the new year.

         -- Doug Westendorp