Alternative Longevity: for Helena Qi Hong
Just as Wang Lun, the richest guy in the world’s
Greatest dynasty has outlived his name in history
Since he bribed Li Po with tons of rare & valuable
Goods over a thousand years ago, thus inspiring
The great high Tang poet to mention his gifts
In an immortal line
So you are the only Chinese
Woman who’s found your way into foreign poetry
Much “Like a love letter into its envelop,” without
Even making an empty promise.
You don’t speak
A single English word, nor have you ever
Bothered to read any stanzas in our mother tongue
But now you’re in full display in a museum of love
I’ve built with the words of the imperial language
.
Author’s note: This poem is inspired by Helena Qi Hong
.
Stink Eye Magazine 