Hot Tears For Dad Poem by Thanh-Thanh NhuanLe

The world is in winter but colder is my inner heart;
Here I do return but from this life Dad did depart.
From now on I cannot see any longer my father's shine;
How to stop from my eyes the stream of fervid brine!

My inside shoots as if cut by knives, the stings gather;
Only in a few days I have lost my beloved father!
I reminisce the old days you were so formidable
Just because you wanted me to become serviceable.

Your immense merit was like high sky, vast ocean,
Your watercourse of love never ceased its motion.
How I recall your merciful smile and generous face,
Temperate voice when educating me in each case.

I even remember the rod to your good will to bend
For being work-shy festal with a neighboring friend...
Of your bosom I can't find any word that fully speaks;
Drops of choler are rolling down on my hollow cheeks.

From now on I do not have any more my dear Dad;
Where on earth can I find my father's image – So sad!


Translation by THANH-THANH