Nightfall Poem by Kwai Chee Low

Nightfall over the temple grounds
A full moon expressionless without a sound
Grudgingly grants its pale luminance
Obviously tired of its nightly performance

A starry canopy of quietness and tranquility
Punctuated by harmonious chanting of such gentility
Silhouettes of monks their minds at peace
Yellow robes gently rippling in the cool night breeze

A nearby stream murmurs, seemingly in refrain
Even when full with yesterday's rain
While cicadas proudly lend their chorus
And bullfrogs' bellow reach the bamboo forest