On The Train To Pusan Poem by JDC LeDrew

On the train to Pusan I saw a hawk
Not much bigger than both my hands put together.
Watching her hover and swoop in constant motion
In the haze of the shipyard stacks,
I assigned her gender
She reminded me of one I know

As the train rolled on
Through the frosted landscape
Past snow-dusted gardens
Past sleeping, silent, rice patties
Awaiting spring
They reminded me of one I know

I asked for permission
To hold her gloved hand,
Just for a minute

In Pusan,
We walked the seawall and saw
A bronzed mermaid bolted to the rocks.
From a plaque we learned
That when the princess was sad,
She gazed into a magic globe
To remind her of home
I hope that works for her

Traveling north on the train to Ulsan
Not much was said,
Each thinking our own thoughts.
We were warm and tired
I held my peace and did not suggest
That I hold her hand,
Although I wanted to

It use to annoy me when I’d catch my father
Staring overlong at my face,
A soft smile for something
I did not comprehend -
Caught in the corner of his mouth
Now, it is impossible for me
To hide my smile,
Looking on the face of one I know

When you need to,
Place your hand on your heart
To feel the faithful circle-
I will do the same

You may be certain
Only one person in the world
Could ever find me
Riding on a northbound train
To Ulsan, South Korea
Daughter;
That would be you