The River in My Dream

I dream of a river my youthful days I dabbled feet

It comes from faraway mountains abutting stars

Rivulets merge into its downward course

Nature bestows it with bountiful rainwater


Arriving at the prairie it turns into a majestic river

Meandering through the valley it enriches the land

Along its path trees are heftier, grass greener

Rice harvest ampler with it irrigating paddy fields


Sun dresses the river with a sparkling gown

Mirrored clouds add ever-changing patterns

Winds lay fleeting wrinkles on its face

Raindrops decorate it with wavy dimples


Children frolic in the river water

Heartbroken men wander to its verge

Lovers romance along its bank under tree shades

Women wash clothes on its stony steps


The river witnessed my youth

It imbibes sorrows and joys of many people

Incessantly it hums a mixed tune of

Dampened weeping and muffled laughter


By Shih-Fang Wang

From: United States