Dream In Thai Poem by Robert Eckstein

And still, I often dream in Thai
Though over fifty years have passed
Since I first wandered Bangkok streets.

I dream of little noodle stands,
Fried rice in a banana leaf,
And peppers hot enough to make you scream.

Green curry, sticky rice with fresh papaya,
Roti with shredded coconut and cheese,
Lobster skewered on hot sugarcane.

Awake, I find the language almost gone.
Asleep, my missing fluency returns
As I mount my ancient Ariel.

I know it is not as it was
And that I never can go back,
But I am thankful for the dream.